What changes in street markets – MyKataggelies app introduced

Ten key interventions aimed at boosting business competitiveness and protecting consumers are being introduced by the Ministry of Development through a new omnibus bill.

The discussion begins today in Parliament’s Standing Committee on Production and Trade. According to the government, the draft law constitutes an extensive reform initiative of 250 articles, centred on three pillars: entrepreneurship, production and the market.

Removal of bureaucratic obstacles

A central pillar of the bill is the simplification of procedures for Strategic Investments through the creation of a true “One Stop Shop” at the Ministry of Development. The “Department for Investment Reception and Funding Programmes” will now exclusively handle applications, replacing Enterprise Greece, with the aim of eliminating delays and unifying processes.

At the same time, measures are being promoted to strengthen industry. The process for modernising and expanding existing units is simplified, especially in areas with high activity concentration such as Attica. Provided that the activity or environmental classification does not change, the works will proceed with a simple declaration, without new approvals. Business parks and logistics infrastructure are also being strengthened, allowing broader utilisation.

Simplification of the business environment

The bill introduces a comprehensive licensing and supervision system for economic activities, aiming to simplify entrepreneurship and accelerate investments, in line with Recovery Fund commitments.

For activities such as elderly care centres, preschool units, wellness services, tourism and transport, a clear and functional regulatory framework is established that enhances quality, safety and transparency while reducing administrative burden. Establishment and operation procedures will be carried out digitally via Open Business, based on risk assessment and the “notification” principle.

Additionally, the Industrial Activity Bulletin is abolished and replaced by the digital Business Activity Bulletin, operating under the “one-only” principle, meaning data will be declared once and used by all competent authorities.

Protection of production and innovation

A key innovation is the establishment of a framework to protect Geographical Indications for industrial and craft products. Greek craftsmanship is recognised as an important sector, aiming to strengthen the identity and quality of products such as Tinos woodcarvings, Cretan knives and Ioannina silverware, protecting them from unfair competition.

Changes are also introduced to the Development Law, excluding investment plans that have previously been removed due to violations of labour legislation.

Strengthening consumer protection

The framework for street trading and open-air markets is modernised with digital licences and unlimited duration. Producer licences will now be issued within five days with minimal documentation, while allocation of positions will be carried out through transparent electronic lotteries.

Consumer protection against unfair practices is also strengthened. Mandatory labelling is introduced for products whose quantity is reduced without a corresponding price decrease, with fines reaching up to €2 million. Control mechanisms are enhanced with digital tools such as the MyKataggelies app, allowing named or anonymous complaints with supporting evidence.

More specifically, according to the Ministry:

The framework for street trading and open-air markets is modernised to facilitate producers and professionals while ensuring transparency and fair competition.

Bureaucratic procedures are abolished as licences are digitalised and granted indefinitely. Producer licences will be issued within just five days with only two supporting documents, while vacant positions will be filled through transparent electronic lotteries.

“We actively support Greek farmers by establishing seasonal producer positions in every open-air market within just 48 hours of application. In this way, we boost agricultural income and ensure consumers’ access to quality and fresh products,” the Ministry states.

Pre-packaged products and price transparency

The consumer protection framework is strengthened against unfair practices by imposing mandatory labelling on products whose quantity is reduced without a corresponding price decrease, with strict penalties of up to €2,000,000.

MyKataggelies electronic application

Inspection mechanisms are reinforced with digital tools that facilitate direct citizen participation, such as the MyKataggelies app, which allows the submission of anonymous or named complaints, including photos with timestamp and geolocation data.

Complaint management and verification of violations will be handled by the Independent Authority for Consumer Protection and Market Surveillance.