Greece as a Global Logistics Hub: Tax Opportunities for Foreign Companies

Alexandra Theologou
Legal Advisor

Introduction

Strategically positioned at the intersection of Europe, Asia, and Africa, Greece serves as a natural gateway for international trade and transportation. Its advanced port infrastructure, extensive maritime tradition, and supportive fiscal policies make it an attractive destination for logistics companies looking to establish a foothold in the region. This article explores the unique advantages Greece offers and highlights tax strategies designed to support foreign logistics and shipping businesses.

Greece’s Strategic Advantages in Logistics

Greece boasts an exceptional geographical location with access to major global shipping routes. Ports like Piraeus—among the largest in the Mediterranean—offer unparalleled connectivity to European and Asian markets, making it a vital link in global supply chains.

As a member of the European Union and the Schengen Zone, Greece provides logistics companies with direct access to EU markets, facilitating the seamless movement of goods. Additionally, the country has developed an extensive network of over 57 double taxation treaties, ensuring reduced tax burdens and enhanced fiscal certainty for foreign investors.

Government incentives, including tax credits and subsidies for investments in logistics and infrastructure, further enhance Greece’s attractiveness as a hub for global trade.

Tax Strategies to Maximize Benefits

  1. Utilizing Greece’s Double Taxation Treaties
  2. Logistics companies can benefit from reduced withholding tax rates on income streams such as dividends, interest, and royalties. By structuring operations strategically within Greece, businesses can optimize their tax obligations while expanding their presence in the region.
  3. Optimizing Operations Through Free Zones

Greece’s free zones, including those near major ports, offer customs duty suspensions and VAT exemptions for goods in transit. Establishing logistics hubs that can benefit from these zones significantly reduces operational costs and streamlines processes for international trade.

  • Leveraging Favorable Corporate Tax Policies

With a corporate tax rate of 22%, Greece is highly competitive among EU countries. Logistics companies investing in research and development or adopting green technologies can take advantage of additional tax deductions and incentives.

Eurofast’s Expertise in Supporting Logistics Companies

Eurofast has extensive experience in assisting logistics companies in navigating Greece’s regulatory and fiscal landscape. Our experts provide tailored advice on leveraging tax treaties, optimizing corporate structures, and taking full advantage of free zones and other fiscal benefits.

With a strong presence in Greece and across the region, Eurofast ensures seamless compliance and strategic planning for businesses seeking to capitalize on Greece’s unique position in the logistics and shipping industry.

For further queries contact us at athens@eurofast.eu

For a comprehensive assessment of your business’s potential in Greece, reach out to Eurofast today.

Resources:

https://www.state.gov/reports/2023-investment-climate-statements/greece/

https://taxsummaries.pwc.com/greece/individual/foreign-tax-relief-and-tax-treaties

https://www.irs.gov/businesses/international-businesses/greece-tax-treaty-documents

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