The government is the largest debtor to private businesses

Public sector debts to private entities reached €2.6 billion in July, and when combined with tax refunds of €605 million, the total exceeds €3.2 billion.

This amount represents 1.4% of GDP, up from €2.8 billion in December 2023, reflecting a €400 million increase over seven months.

Despite years of pressure from the European Commission and other European institutions to speed up payments, the problem of delayed payments persists. The debts appear to be increasing rather than decreasing.

In April, the European Commission referred Greece to the EU Court of Justice due to payment delays by public hospitals.

Hospitals top the list, owing over €1 billion to suppliers. The 2024 budget includes a €400 million allocation for healthcare to address these hospital debts.

Social Security Organizations owe €619 million, up from €607 million in June and €525 million in December 2023.

Local Government Organizations have debts totaling €298 million, compared to €273 million in June 2022 and €149 million in December 2023. Additionally, Legal Entities of the General Government owe €305 million.