Operation “Theros”: Sweeping Tax Inspections and Business Closures Across the Aegean

 Coordinated crackdown by Greece’s Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE)

The Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE) continues its massive summer inspection campaign, codenamed “Operation Theros”, throughout August.

The campaign targets popular tourist destinations across mainland Greece and the islands, focusing on uncovering tax evasion and undeclared revenue during peak season.

Surprise visits and full-scale audits

AADE inspectors are conducting unannounced checks and applying a 360-degree auditing approach, combining:

• Real-time cross-checks between POS data, cash register receipts, and the myDATA platform
• Comparisons with VAT filings
• Backdated audits, covering previous tax years (2021, 2022, etc.)

“This approach allows us to identify systemic evasion, not just one-time infractions,” AADE sources note.

Notable violations and penalties

AADE has released specific cases to illustrate the scale of tax evasion and the penalties enforced:

• Mykonos – Folk art shop: Failed to issue receipts totaling €107,000 for 2021–2022, avoiding €26,000 in VAT. ➤ Penalty: €13,000 fine + 48-hour closure
• Mykonos – Italian restaurant: Omitted a single receipt for €28,000 in 2021, plus €4,000 in VAT. ➤ Penalty: €2,000 fine + 48-hour closure
• Paros & Milos – Vehicle rental companies: Six businesses failed to issue receipts totaling €18,000, with €4,350 in unpaid VAT. ➤ Penalties: Fines + additional financial sanctions
• Other hotspots: Similar fines and temporary closures were enforced in restaurants and tourism-related businesses in Astypalaia, Heraklion, Chania, and Lesvos.

Real-time monitoring and digital tools in action

The AADE leverages its digital infrastructure to monitor and cross-reference financial activity in real time. Tools include:

• Online integration with myDATA (e-bookkeeping system)
• Monitoring of POS activity
• Immediate data matching with VAT declarations

This technological support enables faster detection of discrepancies and facilitates deeper audits of past fiscal years.

Message of deterrence and market fairness

The ultimate goal of Operation Theros is not just enforcement, but to promote tax compliance, ensure fair competition, and support honest businesses.

“Inspections aim to protect both consumers and compliant enterprises — not just to impose fines, but to uphold market integrity,” an AADE representative stated.

Source: pagenews.gr