Greece Cracks Down on Olive Oil Smuggling, Sparks Producer Backlash

18:06 9/1/2025 - Πηγή: iEfimerida

The Greek government is facing criticism from olive oil producers over its proposed crackdown on the illicit trade of olive oil.

While aimed at curbing smuggling and protecting certified producers, the new measures have sparked concerns among small producers who fear they will disrupt traditional practices

and impose unnecessary burdens.

One of the most contentious proposals is a €5,000 fine for transporting olive oil in traditional metal containers ("tenekedes") without proper documentation.

This measure is intended to prevent the illegal sale of uncertified olive oil, but many producers argue it unfairly targets those who share their homegrown olive oil with family and friends.

"I can't take a tin of olive oil to my sister or my child? It's unthinkable," said one producer from Corinthia, expressing a sentiment shared by many who see the measure as a threat to rural traditions.

However, supporters of the regulation argue that it is necessary to address the widespread practice of selling bulk olive oil without receipts, which results in tax evasion and unfair competition for licensed producers.

To further combat smuggling and fraud, the government is considering implementing digital tracking measures.

These could include requiring producers to submit digital shipment declarations for transported olive oil and harvest declarations to record production quantities.

Additionally, a system for digital declarations of olive oil production and packaging may be rolled out for olive mills and packaging facilities.

While these measures aim to modernize the olive oil sector and ensure transparency, producers remain skeptical. Many fear that the increased bureaucracy will create additional burdens for small producers already facing numerous challenges.

The government maintains that the new regulations are necessary to protect consumers and legitimate producers, while also ensuring fair competition and tax compliance.

The effectiveness of these measures, however, will depend on their implementation and whether they can strike a balance between combating fraud and supporting the livelihoods of small olive oil producers.

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Greece Cracks Down,Olive Oil Smuggling Sparks Producer Backlash