Jan Jenick has no doubt that the member states of the European Union know how to support their exporting companies. As he told us, "In February, I was in New Delhi, where Spain was invited to one of the most important trade fairs in the world. More than 125 Spanish companies attended, which, in my opinion, is an extraordinary success for Spain." "The fair was inaugurated by the President of the Republic of India and was attended by a prominent figure such as HRH Prince Felipe, which demonstrates Spain's interest in exports," Jenick noted.
– What export support instruments does your government offer?
In August 1998, the newly formed government of Milos Zeman issued a comprehensive declaration of principles outlining its export support policy. In April 1999, this declaration was translated into a package of measures that included the necessary instruments to facilitate the implementation of this pro-export policy.
Czech Trade is one of the organizations we financially support, and I know you are familiar with its mission. Czech Invest, for its part, focuses on attracting foreign investment and explaining its advantages to foreign investors. Over the past two years, the Czech Republic has attracted five billion dollars in investment, demonstrating the agency's resounding success. Another key player in the internationalization of Czech companies has undoubtedly been the Czech Bank, which has achieved excellent results in its ongoing support of exporters, not only by providing lines of credit but also by offering insurance policies to businesses.
There are countries like the US, Taiwan, and the Netherlands that are making strong investments in the country, and I suppose that investors from Spain could also be more active.
For the next two or three years there will continue to be advantages for companies that decide to set up in the Czech Republic, so I consider the work of MONEDA UNICA in informing its Spanish readers in detail to be very positive.
– What do you think is the state of bilateral relations between Spain and the Czech Republic?
From a commercial standpoint, Spain's position in trade relations with the Czech Republic has strengthened considerably, and it now represents approximately the thirteenth largest trading partner, and eighth within the European Union, accounting for 1,7% of total trade. This dynamism has continued in recent years. In 2000, the increase was 34% compared to the previous year.
Regarding the products traded between the two countries, it is worth noting that they are manufactured goods, predominantly from the automotive sector and related industries.
And as for imports, it is traditional agricultural products (which we cannot produce) such as olive oil or citrus fruits, that are at the forefront.
With the statistics in hand, another aspect of official relations should be highlighted: the meetings and consultations we regularly hold with Spanish government bodies. We conduct consultations and negotiations at various levels practically every year; the last visit to Spain by our Minister and the Prime Minister was in March of this year. In March, talks were held with our Spanish partners, and meetings took place with COPCA and regional bodies in Catalonia.
We want to continue making presentations in the most important regions of Spain. All of this reflects the dynamic development of our trade, which last year exceeded one billion dollars for the first time—a surprisingly positive figure.
– What is the strategic value of a foreign investor outside of the country's market?
We often say we are the heart of Europe, and of course, a great deal of blood flows from the heart to every corner of the body. Therefore, an investor might consider distributing goods via transport, using the Czech Republic as a logistics hub. As mentioned, customs administration plays a crucial role.
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