The Greek government has reaffirmed its commitment to the public ownership and redevelopment of the Thessaloniki International Fair (TIF), a landmark project for the city and the wider region.
“The TIF is a vital institution for Thessaloniki, and the government’s intention is for it to remain a public asset. Its redevelopment will be carried out as a public project. By decision of the Prime Minister, TIF is a public asset—belonging to the state, to Thessaloniki, and to its citizens,” stated the Alternate Minister of National Economy and Finance, Mr. Nikos Papathanasis.
As part of this initiative, Mr. Papathanasis submitted a legislative amendment to the draft law “Enhancement of Development Program Services and Related Organizational and Administrative Matters.” The amendment increases the number of members on the TIF Board of Directors by two, with new seats designated for representatives from the Municipality of Thessaloniki and the Region of Central Macedonia, strengthening local participation in the governance of the project.
Originally planned as a public-private partnership (PPP) with a 35-year concession, the redevelopment project was included in May in the Strategic Projects Development Programme. The comprehensive plan includes the creation of a 100,000 sq.m. metropolitan park, state-of-the-art exhibition and conference facilities, a business center, hotel, and underground parking areas.
According to the timeline previously outlined by the Hellenic Corporation of Assets and Participations (Growthfund), in collaboration with TIF-HELEXPO, the tender documents are expected to be published in the first half of 2025. The tender process is anticipated to be completed by mid-2026, with a provisional contractor selected shortly thereafter.
Additionally, the draft law establishes a nine-member Advisory Committee for the TIF project, ensuring broad representation from key local and sectoral stakeholders. The committee will include:
- One representative from the Municipality of Thessaloniki
- One representative from the Region of Central Macedonia
- One representative from the Hellenic Industries Association (SBE)
- One representative from the Northern Greece Exporters Association (SEVE)
- One representative from the Thessaloniki Chamber of Commerce and Industry (TCCI)
- One representative from the Thessaloniki Chamber of Tradesmen (TCT)
- One representative from the Thessaloniki Chamber of Small and Medium-Sized Industries (VETH)
- One representative from the Thessaloniki Merchants Association
- One representative from the Greek Tourism Confederation (SETE)
This structure aims to ensure that the redevelopment of TIF reflects the interests and input of the city’s economic and civic ecosystem.
