Covid-19: Greece Planning Targeted Actions for Tourism Sector

Photo source: cstaikouras.gr

Greek Finance Minister Christos Staikouras on Sunday said the government is planning targeted actions for tourism to limit the Covid-19 outbreak’s impact on the sector.

Speaking to Skai TV, the minister said the Covid-19 crisis has triggered a recession which is estimated to reach almost 4 percent of GDP.

“The recession comes as a result of the extent of the problem and its possible recurrence during the year,” he said, adding that safe assessments cannot be made, as most predictions show a deep recession.

Minister Staikouras said the impact the crisis will have on Greek tourism in the summer has also been taken into account.

“Targeted actions for the tourism field are also planned,” he said, adding that under normal circumstances tourism is the country’s big comparative advantage.

However, he said that at the moment the sector is in trouble.

“What is needed, in addition to the measures that we have already taken, are targeted actions in the coming period,” he said.

Moreover, the minister said that the benefit of 800 euros will be paid to businesses and workers affected by the coronavirus. The special benefit is among the measures announced by the Greek government.

Minister Staikouras said that the package of measures will be extended in May and June and that there will be no cuts in salaries and pensions.