As of July 8, all bars, restaurants and other entertainment venues will only be allowed serve seated guests, the government has announced.

Speaking after health authorities reported a sharp rise in new Covid-19 infections, Deputy Minister of Civil Protection Nikos Hardalias said businesses who flout the regulations will face heavy fines.

Businesses will also have to respect the maximum customer thresholds set by ministry of development.

Establishments that violate the rules will face a penalty of 5,000 euros and a being shut down for seven days.

A second violation will results in heavier fines and a third violation the confiscation of the business license.

This article was previously published at ekathimerini.com.