Greece has begun implementing a labor agreement with Egypt aimed at addressing growing workforce shortages in its agricultural sector amid an ongoing demographic decline.
The agreement, originally signed in November 2022, allows for the recruitment of up to 5,000 seasonal Egyptian workers to legally work in farming and related rural activities across Greece. The move comes as rural regions face persistent labor gaps driven by population aging and long-term emigration trends.
State media reports indicate that implementation is now underway, with around 150 candidate workers already submitted to regional Greek authorities for approval and processing. Officials suggest the number of workers could rise if agricultural demand increases further.
Representatives from Greece’s agricultural sector confirmed strong employer interest, with more than 36 farming enterprises reportedly expressing willingness to participate in the program.
The initiative forms part of Greece’s broader strategy to manage labor shortages affecting key economic sectors, including agriculture and tourism, which have been heavily impacted by demographic decline following years of economic crisis and migration outflows.
Greece has also pursued similar labor arrangements with other countries, including Bangladesh, and has introduced policies allowing residency and work permits for undocumented migrants to help stabilize the labor market.
NEWS DESK
PRESS UPDATE