Antonis Rokakis Strengthens Greece’s Voice at Eurochambres Congress 2026
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Antonis Rokakis, Vice President of the Union of Hellenic Chambers of Commerce (KEEE) and President of the Chania Chamber, delivered a strong and active presence at the Eurochambres Congress 2026, the major European gathering of Chambers and the business community held in Valencia, Spain (28–29 September). His participation reinforced Greece’s institutional footprint in a dialogue that shapes the competitiveness agenda for Europe’s enterprises.
The Congress highlighted the key challenges and opportunities defining Europe’s business environment — issues that directly affect Greek companies and their ability to grow, innovate and compete internationally.
Competitiveness and the Single Market
Discussions underscored the need for a more integrated and functional Single Market, with fewer barriers and improved access to capital, services and innovation. For Greek enterprises, fully leveraging the Single Market remains a critical condition for extroversion and sustainable growth.
Energy Costs and Business Competitiveness
High energy costs and limited suppliers continue to constrain Europe’s competitiveness. Accelerating investments in grids, storage and electrification — combined with affordable and secure energy — is essential for strengthening both European and Greek businesses.
Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation
AI is already reshaping productivity and business models. Particular emphasis was placed on the needs of SMEs, ensuring that digital technologies become tools for growth rather than sources of additional cost and complexity.
Green Transition with Competitiveness
Sustainability must align with economic viability. For Greek SMEs, the green transition requires financing, technical support, simplified rules and real incentives for investment.
Extroversion and International Trade I
n a volatile geopolitical environment, market diversification is becoming increasingly important. Greece has significant potential to expand its international footprint by targeting emerging economies such as India and South America.
Human Capital and Skills
The shortage of workers with modern skills is emerging as one of the biggest barriers to growth. Vocational training, lifelong learning and stronger links between education and labor market needs are now more critical than ever.
Greek Intervention on the PPWR Regulation
During the Congress, the Greek delegation led by KEEE President Giannis Voutsinas met with Eurochambres President Vladimir Dlouhy to present the institutional actions taken by Greek Chambers regarding the EU Packaging Regulation (PPWR – Regulation 2025/40). The regulation introduces structural changes in packaging, storage and product distribution, creating disproportionate costs for Greek producers and traders and disrupting the entire supply chain. KEEE’s Brussels Office is intensifying its interventions ahead of the ENVI Committee session on 12 October 2026, where the PPWR will be discussed.
Statement by Antonis Rokakis
Rokakis emphasized: “In today’s highly unstable economic environment, the goal is clear: more modern, digital and energy efficient infrastructures and services, aligned with the pressing operational needs of businesses — especially SMEs. The participation of KEEE in Eurochambres was another opportunity for Greek entrepreneurship to bring its multifaceted priorities into the European discussion, aiming for more accessible and flexible use of available European tools. Europe’s competitiveness depends on the tangible support of its enterprises, and Greek entrepreneurship will continue to claim an active role in shaping the next day.”
