A large percentage of gas stations continue to be in violation, as 23.1% of pumps appear to be “stealing” fuel, according to the National Technical University of Athens’ established study on pump discrepancies in Attica and Thessaloniki.
According to the survey, which was conducted at gas stations in Athens and Thessaloniki and presented today at an event organized by the Association of Petroleum Marketing Companies, deviations from the expected quantity in Attica reached up to 14.99%, compared to 18.2% in 2025 and 24% in 2023. In the case of Thessaloniki, the discrepancies reached 14% compared to 12.7% in 2025.
In fact, in six of the samples, either “questionable” receipts were provided, more expensive fuel was dispensed, or a specific pump was selected for the transaction.
In any case, the results show that while non-compliance in the Greek market may reach double-digit percentages, there has been a significant reduction in irregularities compared to previous surveys, according to the report presented by NTUA professor Fani Zannikos, who was in charge of the study.
Looking at the trend in fuel theft at gas stations in Attica over time, from levels of 20–21.5% during the 2020–2021 period, the rate surged to 33% in 2023, before beginning to decline to 23% in 2026.
“Looking at the big picture—and if we view the glass as half full—progress has been made due to the tightening of regulations and the imposition of more and higher fines; however, we must not become complacent,” said Yannis Aligizakis (photo), president of the Association of Petroleum Marketing Companies, who noted that the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE) has shut down 92 gas stations.
For his part, AADE Director George Pitsilis, who was present at the event, spoke of significant progress and a reversal of the trend, but acknowledged that there is still much to be done.
The investigation covered 200 fuel pumps—both at company-owned and independent stations (130 in Attica and 70 in Thessaloniki)—and was conducted between March and April; the fuel examined in the study was regular unleaded gasoline.
Sampling was conducted covertly, and fuel was procured using specially equipped vehicles. The process compared the quantity requested and billed with the quantity ultimately received, as indicated on the relevant receipt.
In the interview, Mr. Aligizanis also referred to the price cap imposed on fuel and the need for it to be lifted, emphasizing that while the price of gasoline is 9% higher than pre-war levels, while diesel has returned to the levels it was at before the conflict began.