Greek Development Minister Takis Theodorikakos announced that the government is funding 282 investment projects worth nearly one billion euros in Macedonia to boost industrial growth. Speaking in an interview on ERT3's main news broadcast on August 27, 2026, he outlined a broad economic strategy centered on northern Greece.
The Ministry of Development is backing the 282 projects across the northern region to create more than 5,000 jobs, with the majority of investments focused on the industrial sector. Theodorikakos said all of the funded plans are currently underway and taking shape as part of efforts to build a more productive and competitive economy.
The minister said Thessaloniki has entered a new era with a strategic vision aiming toward 2030, positioning the city as the capital of the entire Balkan region. He highlighted key infrastructure initiatives transforming the city, including the expansion of the Thessaloniki Metro, the redevelopment of the Thessaloniki International Fair site to create a Metropolitan Park, the construction of a new Pediatric Hospital, and the Flyover elevated highway project.
Thessaloniki is Greece's second-largest city and serves as the economic hub of Macedonia, the country's extensive northern region. ERT3 is the Thessaloniki-based public television channel operated by Hellenic Broadcasting Corporation. The Flyover project is an elevated bypass motorway designed to alleviate severe traffic congestion across the metropolitan area, while the Thessaloniki International Fair grounds have long served as a central commercial landmark.
Regional Development and Demographics
Theodorikakos gave special emphasis to a new development regime established for Greece's border prefectures and regional areas. He stated that the primary objective is to enable young Greeks born in border provinces to remain in their home regions, describing the initiative as an issue of national security, patriotism, and improved living conditions.
He described population trends and balanced regional growth across all parts of the country as his single most important focus. He emphasized that strengthening local economies outside major urban centers remains vital for long-term national stability.
National Price Reduction Initiative
Addressing rising living costs, Theodorikakos explained that solving the issue requires either increasing wages or lowering prices. He said a more productive national economy could deliver higher wages while targeted market interventions aim to foster fairer trading conditions and lower prices where possible.
To directly assist struggling households, the Ministry of Development is launching the National Price Reduction Initiative on August 31. Theodorikakos revealed that approximately 1,500 product codes have joined the scheme so far. Starting Monday, supermarkets will stock a significant range of essential food and household items priced at least 5 percent lower, under a program set to run for four months.
Citing figures from Eurostat, the official statistical office of the European Union, Theodorikakos noted that food prices in Greece fell by 2.3 percent from June to July, while annual food inflation stood at -0.4 percent. Despite these figures, he clarified that the government is neither gloating nor resting on its laurels regarding consumer prices.
Fuel Subsidies and Political Outlook
Regarding energy costs, Theodorikakos confirmed he has discussed extending the pump subsidy for diesel fuel with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. The current support measure is scheduled to expire on August 31, but the minister said he expects an extension to be granted, with its duration to be determined by international market developments.
Turning to national politics, Theodorikakos expressed confidence that the ruling New Democracy party can secure another parliamentary majority in the next general elections. He said the party will seek reelection based on its governing record and a clear structural plan leading up to 2030.
Addressing regional security and Turkish stance toward Greece, Theodorikakos stated that the administration will not permit even the slightest challenge to Greek sovereign rights. He concluded that the government's overriding commitment is to maintain a strong, productive, and secure nation.
