A “safe feeling” that a primary surplus will be achieved in 2013 as planned, was expressed by the Greek Deputy Minister of Finance, Christos Staikouras, who said so because of the optimistic signs of recovery and strict monitoring.
Public revenue was increased by 11 percent in August 2013 compared to August 2012, chiefly due to the fact that the taxes paid out by businesses were increased, which was a greater-than-expected yield from the taxation of interest and repos as well as an increase of new vehicle registrations, according to the Greek newspaper To Vima.
This information comes from a report from the Treasury, according to which public revenue is on a steady recovery, with figures rising for the second month running well above targets that were agreed upon with the Troika.
Minister Staikouras is also awaiting the latest figures from the VAT revenue, particularly since the VAT on food was reduced and there has been a significant increase in tourist arrivals.
More tourist arrivals are expected as they are scheduled for the month of September, which leads to the estimation that figures will present an additional improvement.
The government is still up against serious problems with the operation of the National Organization for the Provision of Health Services (EOPYY) and the loss of insurance contributions from the funds, which could have an adverse impact on the budget.
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