Prices for coffee and chocolate products are expected to rise once again in Greece, with increases estimated at 10–12%, according to General Secretary of Trade Sotiris Anagnostopoulos.
In an interview with public broadcaster ERT this week, Anagnostopoulos confirmed that price hikes for coffee and cocoa are continuing, reflecting a broader global trend in food commodity costs. Coffee prices hit new highs last December, followed by hikes in chocolate products in January.
Despite the ongoing increases, Anagnostopoulos also pointed to some upcoming relief for consumers, especially regarding the price of olive oil, which could see prices fall by as much as 25% in the coming months. Olive oil had previously experienced significant increases throughout last year.
Addressing concerns over higher fruit and vegetable prices, Anagnostopoulos attributed the changes to weather conditions and seasonality, and encouraged consumers to shop at open-air “laiki” markets, where prices are typically lower.
The General Secretary emphasized that the government is stepping up efforts to protect consumer rights. These include increased inspections and the rollout of digital tools to enhance price transparency.
In April, the Development Ministry launched a public awareness campaign promoting the use of e-katanalotis, an online platform that enables consumers to compare supermarket prices and make informed purchasing decisions.
Additionally, Anagnostopoulos said the development of a new mobile app which will allow users to report profiteering or deceptive pricing practices at supermarkets, is expected this fall.
Finally, he said authorities were also looking into the possibility of setting up a new supervisory body focused on monitoring market conditions and safeguarding consumer protection.
Currently, the Consumers’ Protection Centre (INKA), founded in 1970, remains the largest and oldest independent consumer organization in Greece.
