ATHENS – The forecast for inflation in 2022 will be close to 10 pct in the new budget, while the inflation forecast for 2023 will be below that level while remaining high, Finance Minister Christos Staikouras said in an Open TV programme on Tuesday, commenting on Eurostat inflation figures for Greece.

This slowdown in the rise of inflation was “not grounds to celebrate”, the minister added, stressing the need for measures on a European level.

Commenting on domestic measures to support consumers struggling with rising energy prices, he again ruled out a third ‘Fuel Pass’ subsidising vehicle fuels and said that a joint ministerial decision is due to be issued within the week for a heating oil benefit for households, while the online platform will be activated within November.

Staikouras also commented on the rise in private debt as a result of the crises, saying it was an “element of concern” and stressed the importance of meeting the country’s fiscal targets.