Greece is a country with a rich history and diverse cultural influences, but starting a business there can be a complex process that requires an understanding of the local community and government. While there are two main factors to consider - the law and business communities - corruption can be a challenge.
In Greece, it's not enough to simply have an idea and capital to start a business. Instead, it's often necessary to join a community of like-minded individuals and work your way up from the bottom to earn independence and a license. For example, in the moving day markets for fruit and vegetable traders, new vendors typically start by working for someone else before earning their own license.
Corruption exists in Greece, but it's not as straightforward as paying off government employees for licenses or permits. Instead, corruption often takes the form of long-term deals and connections between the top of each community and government officials.
If someone tries to start a business without the approval of the community leaders, they may run into issues with the Greek government. The Greek legal system can make it difficult for businesses to operate legally due to high taxes, rent, and other costs, as well as strict and often unrealistic licensing requirements from government employees.
While efforts have been made to address these challenges, such as European initiatives to combat corruption, the societal structures in Greece may not change easily. In many cases, businesses are still inherited and run by families, which perpetuate the status quo.
Despite these challenges, there are still opportunities for new businesses in Greece, especially those that are willing to navigate the local culture and build relationships with established communities. While it may not be an easy road, with the right approach, success is possible.