Liquidity is the top issue that the government has to deal with this year, Development Minister Costis Hatzidakis said yesterday, while underlining the need for a positive climate. During a press conference Hatzidakis presented his ministry’s three priorities for 2014: to support a productive model, strengthen competitiveness and lift barriers to the functioning of the market; at the same time it aims at protecting consumers.

Specifically, the ministry will soon legislate on an extension of the expiration date for fresh milk, scrapping uniform prices on books and the sale of non-prescription drugs in supermarkets; such reforms will boost free competition and lead to lower prices; The ministry will also introduce a special tag on products, certifying their Greek origin. Last but not least, it will continue fighting illegal trade. In 2013, 10.6 million items were confiscated, up from to 2 million items the year before. Deputy Development Minister Notis Mitarakis referred to plans for the privatization of the former Athens airport, Elliniko.