International Trade

SEV is committed to increasing Greece’s share in global trade and international value chains. SEV’s work enables its members to identify business opportunities and promising partnerships abroad. We also cooperate with relevant government authorities, private sector bodies and SEV Members to identify problems, suggest solutions, and propose policies for further strengthening Greece’s image as a reliable trade partner and an attractive investment destination. Through our ExportReady services, the only comprehensive export promotion program in Greece, we provide exporters with strategic intelligence, skills’ building opportunities, and customized networking opportunities with potential partners.

  • Simplified export and customs procedures and the fast roll-out of mechanisms like Single Window, digitized processes, accelerated export licensing procedures, transparent and timely processing of duties and refunds, etc
  • ExportReady services:
    ExportReady Discover offers strategic intelligence by market and sector, in cooperation with FitchSolutions.
    – ExportReady Master brings together exporters with country and market experts to share their experience and knowhow
    ExportReady Connect centers on international networking through business missions, business screening, coordination of B2B meetings, etc.
    ExportReady Helpdesk provides information and support on all practical aspects of global trade.
  • Reposition Greece as an international trade partner and investment location, government-led economic diplomacy consultations and initiatives, and collaboration with export promotion agencies and private sector bodies.
  • International networking and representation of the Greek business community in global and European business fora and organizations; interacting with foreign missions in the country; cooperating with business associations abroad; leading Greek business delegations across the world.

Export support mechanisms: Besides red tape minimisation, other mechanisms include enhanced access to customized financing tools, export credit and insurance at reasonable costs. Also, fully exploiting the existing global network of diplomatic and commercial representatives will further enhance Greek businesses’ ability to participate in global value chains.

  • Reduce trade barriers, through cooperation at the EU level to identify and remove non-technical barriers to trade within the Single Market, and address protectionist practices.
  • EU FTAs: With national trade policy guided by the EU, SEV closely monitors the implementation of EU Free Trade Agreements with Canada, Japan, Singapore, Vietnam, and Armenia; negotiations with the USA, ASEAN countries, India, Australia, New Zealand, MERCOSUR countries, Mexico, Chile, Western Balkans, and China; and progress of Economic Partnership Agreements with African, Pacific and Caribbean Countries.
  • Simplification of import and export procedures, through consultation with public and private sector bodies involved in international trade, with an emphasis on efficient e-government services.
  • Brexit: With exports to the UK totaling more than €1bn annually, Brexit poses considerable cost for Greece. SEV follows developments closely through BusinessEurope while at the same time maintaining close relations with our British counterparts.

International Trade Committee works for policies that support export-oriented companies, reduce costs of administrative burdens and procedures, modernize export promotion services and mechanisms provided by the state, and introduce smart and effective funding mechanisms for exporters.

  • Be connected: Stay up to date by participating in workshops, round tables, panel discussions and networking events.
  • Be in-the-know: Access intelligence powered by consulting boutiques and the in-house research team.
  • Be involved: Participate in policy consultations and contribute to decision making procedures. Send your comments, views and ideas and help us promote growth, create new jobs and international competitiveness.
  • Be ExportReady and take advantage of all available services.

CONTACT PERSON

Vicky Makrigianni 
Director, International Relations & Regional Policy

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