“The phenomenon of the increase in the price of olive oil is global” said the Minister of Development, Kostas Skrekas, speaking on the show “Mismatches” on SKAI, adding that it is very difficult to set a ceiling.

As he explained, “if we set the price of oil to the oil producer, for example, at 4 euros, then the Spanish would come and buy en masse, resulting in a shortage in the market”.

The Minister of Development noted that letters have been sent to all major olive oil standardization companies and the gross profit margin is controlled. “If we find that these big companies are making more profit in 2023 than in 2021, very severe fines will be imposed,” he said.

He also reiterated the usefulness of ekatanalotis.gr through which consumers can be informed about product prices.

Regarding the fuel he said that there are also checks on the increases while benefits are focused on those in need and in the areas that are coldest.

For the issue that has arisen with the debt collection companies that confiscate money that has been given as compensation for the disasters, Mr. Skrekas said that it should be examined by the competent ministry as the money that has been given is to support the flood victims.