The development of a new, modern, functional, and upgraded institutional framework for the chambers of commerce was the focus of the consultation on the reform of chamber of commerce legislation, organized at the initiative of Development Minister Takis Theodorikakos, and attended by the president of the Central Union of Greek Chambers (KEE), Yannis Voutsinas; the presidents of chambers from across the country; and the Secretary General of Commerce, Napoleon Maravegias.
At the start of the proceedings, Mr. Theodorikakos emphasized that amending the Chamber of Commerce Act by 2026 is a commitment that will be fulfilled through substantive dialogue with the chamber community itself. As he emphasized, “it is my personal position of principle that legislation must be enacted in close cooperation with the people and organizations it affects.”
The Minister of Development noted that the chambers of commerce represent the entire spectrum of small and medium-sized enterprises and play a critical role in strengthening the productive base, regional development, and social cohesion. He made special mention of the need to support entrepreneurship in the regions and in border areas, where, as he noted, a strong economy, infrastructure, and jobs are prerequisites for young people to be able to stay and build a life in their hometowns.
In this context, he also referred to the Ministry of Development’s strategic decision to focus the Development Law on industry, manufacturing, the regions, and border areas, with a special fund of 150 million euros per year, as well as to areas with an income below 70% of the national average, which included all four prefectures of Thessaly due to the severe consequences of extreme weather events.
Addressing the presidents of the chambers of commerce, he asked them to clearly articulate their positions, needs, and proposals regarding the changes that need to be made to the chamber system. “We have had several discussions with the president of the Hellenic Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KEE), Mr. Voutsinas. But today I want to hear from you and learn your thoughts. That is why I wanted to initiate this process—this open and institutional dialogue with the entire chamber community,” he noted.
Mr. Theodorikakos noted that a specific timeline for the next steps will be agreed upon within ten days. He also emphasized that a committee will be established to gather and evaluate the proposals and positions of the Chambers and will work substantively and on a tight schedule to draft the bill. “I want us to reach the broadest possible consensus. I will need your participation in the practical work of drafting the bill, as my intention is to make very significant changes to the existing law,” he stressed.
“This is a significant institutional reform for the chambers of commerce, for entrepreneurship, and for the Greek economy. Above all, however, it concerns the relationship of trust that must exist between the state and its citizens, and between the state and the business community. “Trust is earned through a credible dialogue,” concluded the Minister of Development.