Greek–Italian Economic Relations: Strategic Investments & Legal Frameworks

At Tsamichas Law Firm, we take pride in actively contributing to the ongoing dialogue on Greek–Italian economic relations and their strategic importance for the broader Mediterranean region. Recently, our firm’s President, Cav. Avv. Ioannis Tsamichas, acting on his role as the President of the Hellenic-Italian Chamber of Commerce of Athens, had the honor of being interviewed on Mega Channel by Ms. Athanasia Akrivou, where he highlighted the pivotal role of leading companies and institutions in strengthening this vital partnership.

See the full interview here (04:00-13:00): https://www.megatv.com/etvshows/2087680/16-9-25-2/

Strategic Projects and Cross-Border Investments

The interview shed light on the significant presence of Italian companies and investors in Greece, as well as Greek enterprises expanding into Italy. These projects not only advance bilateral cooperation but also open complex legal and regulatory challenges requiring precise navigation. Some landmark examples include:

• Infrastructure: Hitachi Rail is implementing the Thessaloniki Metro, first greek driverless metro, the largest infrastructure project in Greece in recent years, underlining the critical role of public tenders, concession agreements, and compliance with EU procurement law.

• Energy Transition: Metlen Energy & Metals is investing over €3 billion in renewable projects in Italy, while Sunlight Group has established Sunlight Italy and Sunlight European Battery Assembly (SEBA) in Verona, reinforcing its European presence in the energy storage sector. These ventures demand cross-border legal structuring, licensing for renewable projects, and adherence to EU Green Deal regulations.

• Energy Security & Technology: Italgas enhances energy security through distribution networks, while RENCO drives innovation in renewable energy and technology ventures, including the first Microsoft Data Center in Greece. Such strategic investments involve regulatory approvals, competition law compliance, and public–private partnerships.

• Finance & Insurance: Generali Italia, active in Greece since 1886, remains a cornerstone of the insurance sector, while the UniCredit – Alpha Bank partnership fosters new capital flows and cross-border financial collaboration. This raises considerations on financial regulation, banking mergers, and EU capital markets law.

• Construction & Industry: Mapei Hellas & Mapei provide advanced construction solutions for infrastructure projects, while ICAP CRIF integrates Italian expertise in credit rating and risk assessment. Legal support here spans commercial contracting, joint ventures, and compliance with sector-specific standards.

• Shipping & Connectivity: Grimaldi Minoan Lines continues to strengthen maritime connectivity with daily routes supporting both trade and tourism. Maritime law, transport regulation, and port infrastructure contracts are key legal dimensions in this sector.

Legal Challenges in Bilateral Investment

The success of these projects depends not only on financial capacity and technical know-how but also on effective legal structuring and compliance. Tsamichas Law Firm has developed specialized expertise across the following areas critical for investors:

• Public Procurement & Tenders: Advising international contractors on EU and Greek tender procedures, ensuring compliance with Directive 2014/24/EU and national public works legislation.

• Mergers & Acquisitions: Structuring cross-border M&A transactions between Greek and Italian entities, conducting due diligence, and ensuring compliance with corporate, tax, and competition law.

• Energy & Infrastructure Regulation: Guiding renewable energy projects and infrastructure investments through licensing, environmental impact assessments, and EU sustainability frameworks.

• Financial & Corporate Law: Supporting banks, insurers, and credit rating agencies in cross-border operations, navigating financial supervision and EU market regulations.

• Maritime & Transport Law: Providing legal counsel in shipping, port services, and transport infrastructure projects under Greek, Italian, and EU law.

• Dispute Resolution & Arbitration: Representing clients in commercial disputes, construction claims, and international arbitration arising from complex bilateral projects.

Greek international economic relations continue to expand, driven by landmark investments in energy, infrastructure, finance, and shipping. These projects highlight not only the strong commercial ties between the two countries but also the need for expert legal guidance to navigate the complex frameworks that underpin cross-border ventures.

At Tsamichas Law Firm, we are committed to supporting our clients in realizing their strategic goals by offering specialized legal services in investment law, procurement, M&A, and dispute resolution, ensuring that innovation and growth are matched with legal certainty and compliance.