Thessaloniki Chamber Urges Relief Measures for TIF Organizer

Photo Source: @TIF-Helexpo

Thessaloniki’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry (TCCI) is calling on the government to implement support measures to cover the losses incurred following the cancelation earlier this month, of the country’s largest and most influential fair – the Thessaloniki International Fair (TIF) due to Covid-19.

TCCI President Ioannis Masoutis proposed full tax and insurance contribution exemption for TIF-Helexpo SA, the event’s organizer, for 12 months as well as additional relief measures.

The cancelation of the 85^th TIF, which for 94 years has been a major political milestone for the country, is estimated at costing Thessaloniki up to 50 million euros in damages.

“TIF is an institution inextricably linked to the history of our city and has always been a celebration for Thessaloniki and an event of international appeal and special importance for the local and the entire Greek economy,” said Masoutis.

Photo Source: @TIF-Helexpo

Speaking during a teleconference with Thessaloniki authorities on the issue of TIF on the initiative of the city’s mayor, Konstantinos Zervas, Masoutis said TIF-Helexpo SA had suffered a considerable blow following the decision to cancel.

Underlining the importance of the fair for the northern port city’s economy, he proposed the 12-month exemption of VAT, 2020 income tax, ENFIA property tax, municipal taxes and employer contributions as well as a discount on utilities charges.

In place of the annual 85^th TIF, Thessaloniki will host this year a political and economic forum on September 5-13.