Tensions between the Greek government and liquid fuel station owners are reaching a breaking point, with the threat of closed gas stations becoming increasingly likely. The reintroduction of a profit ceiling, influenced by international geopolitical developments and the war in Iran, has sparked a wave of protests among industry professionals, who claim to be facing 'economic suffocation.' The situation has created an atmosphere of apprehension within the fuel distribution sector, calling into question the sustainability of their business models under these regulations.

Today, the Panhellenic Federation of Fuel Station Owners (POPEK) is expected to determine its next steps in response to the government's measures. Central to the dispute is the mathematical formula used to calculate the profit cap; while the ceiling has been set at 12 cents, the inclusion of VAT effectively reduces the actual profit to only 9.5 cents per liter. This financial pressure is exacerbated by rising operational costs, leading to heated discussions among fuel station operators regarding their ability to sustain their businesses under the new profit restrictions. Maria Zaga, the president of the Athens Petroleum Dealers Association, has openly warned that fuel station owners cannot endure further economic strain and hinted at a collective suspension of operations as a last resort.

The protest activities have already commenced, starting in Mytilene, where the local union of fuel station owners has begun mobilization efforts. This could be a precursor to wider actions across the country, reflecting a growing resistance within the sector against government-imposed regulations perceived as detrimental. As the situation develops, the implications may extend beyond just fuel pricing, impacting consumers and the overall economy, particularly as fuel prices play a crucial role in the wake of rising living costs driven by inflation and geopolitical challenges.