Energy is a matter of strategic importance for the smooth functioning of the national economy, directly affecting the productivity of industry as well as businesses across all sectors. Access to stable and predictable energy costs is a prerequisite for efficient operations and for maintaining a successful presence in both domestic and international markets. This depends on security of supply, as well as on the stability and competitiveness of energy prices. In Greece, high energy costs for businesses constitute a major obstacle to growth and a threat to competitiveness.

Transforming Greece into an attractive investment destination is key to increasing productivity, and SEV works systematically to develop and promote proposals in this direction. Priorities include the adoption of improved, user-friendly, and flexible investment incentives and tools, without excessive bureaucratic procedures and unnecessary regulatory burdens.

Technology is a driving force of the modern economy and a key enabler of productivity, competitiveness, innovation, and business extroversion. Digital transformation is no longer optional but a prerequisite for sustainable growth and resilience for businesses of all sizes. SEV aims to contribute to the development of a strong and dynamic technology ecosystem in Greece.

Modern and resilient infrastructure is the foundation of economic competitiveness and the strengthening of productive activity. SEV places particular emphasis on improving the country’s connectivity and reducing the operating and transportation costs of businesses. A key priority is the upgrading of transport networks and the effective interconnection between regional and national networks, industrial areas, logistics hubs, ports, and the railway network.

Rapid technological, economic, and demographic changes are reshaping the labour market, creating new challenges as well as significant opportunities for businesses, workers, and policymakers. Strengthening productivity, competitiveness, and social cohesion requires a modern labour environment, investment in skills, and a stronger alignment between education, training, and the needs of the economy.

The principles of sustainable development are an integral part of responsible entrepreneurship, corporate strategy, effective business risk management, and decision-making processes. In 2008, the SEV Council for Sustainable Development (SEV BCSD) was established to promote sustainable development within the business community and more broadly across the economy and society.

SEV works systematically to strengthen Greece’s international footprint as a reliable trading partner and an attractive investment destination. Our objectives are to increase Greece’s share in global trade and expand the participation of Greek businesses in international value chains. We work closely with export organizations, companies active in international markets, competent public authorities, and foreign institutions. At the same time, we offer the ExportReady services, a comprehensive export promotion program.

Strengthening the competitiveness and productivity of the Greek economy is closely linked to the growth of SMEs, which today account for approximately 85% of the private sector and contribute 63% of added value. Through BusinessEurope, SEV aims at supporting SMEs’ participation in international networks, reducing their administrative burden, facilitating their digital adaptation, strengthening their access to skilled talent, and improving their access to financing and innovation.

For SEV, the ultimate goal is to ensure a level playing field for all businesses and attract investment. To this end, SEV promotes policy proposals and evidence-based positions aimed at shaping a business-friendly environment, free from unnecessary administrative burdens, with clear, predictable, and stable rules that strengthen legal certainty and promote transparency.

The establishment of an effective, growth-oriented tax policy is vital for sustainable long-term growth and for addressing the investment gap. SEV actively participates in national and European consultations, promotes tax policy proposals, and submits recommendations to the competent authorities for the resolution of specialized tax issues.

SEV consistently highlights the importance of an open and well-functioning competitive environment, as stronger fair competition facilitates growth, encourages innovation, increases productivity, creates jobs, and generates multiple benefits for consumers, businesses, and the State.

Upgrading the quality of regulatory governance and the effectiveness of public administration through targeted and coherent reforms should be a central pillar of any growth strategy. Improving legislation and the regulatory framework is one of SEV’s top priorities, as it plays a decisive role in unlocking the growth potential of the Greek economy and strengthening its attractiveness as an investment destination.