A new report from the Institute of Retail Consumer Goods Research (IELKA) indicates that Greece’s supermarket basket of 40 essential products is comparatively cheaper than those in many other European countries. However, the study also reveals Greece has the second-highest Value Added Tax (VAT) rate on goods within the European Union. The comparison analyzed average costs across the selected product categories. Despite lower overall basket costs, Greek consumers face a significant tax burden on everyday items. This VAT rate contributes to inflationary pressures despite relatively lower base prices. The report highlights a complex economic situation for Greek households, balancing affordability with high taxation. Further analysis is expected to explore the impact of VAT on consumer spending.
