Open-air markets: guidance on digital licences and seasonal pitches
The Development Ministry explains how April’s rules apply. Indefinite digital licences remain conditional; seasonal pitches are not automatically allocated to every applicant.
On 18 October 2026, Greece’s Development Ministry published guidance on licences and pitches at open-air markets, citing a General Secretariat of Commerce circular. It concerns implementation of rules which the ministry says were enacted in April — not a new law passed today.
Licences: conditions still apply
According to the announcement, digital licences in the “Open Market” system have indefinite validity provided the required supporting documents remain valid. Holders of expired paper licences that have not been revoked may continue trading until digitisation, with the prescribed certificate. A vendor should not simply assume that an expired licence has automatically renewed.
The ministry also states that producer-vendor licences are issued within five working days after the required supporting documents are received.
Seasonal pitches and afternoon markets
Up to 10% of pitches may be allocated for seasonal needs, for up to six months per producer. After an application is posted for 48 hours, direct allocation applies only if there is no other interested applicant; otherwise an electronic draw is provided for.
Vendors may also operate on the same day in a morning market and a different afternoon market. This option does not announce the opening of any specific local market.
Limits of today’s information
The release gives no circular number or link to its full text and announces no new call for pitches. An individual licence or pitch requires examination by the competent authority. Better prices are the ministry’s intended outcome, not a measured price reduction.
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