Czech arms exports rise 22%

Czech arms exports reached CZK 17 billion in 2019, a 22% increase over the previous year.

Jiri Hynek, President of the Defence and Security Industry Association of the Czech Republic (AOBP), presented the years results at a session of the Chamber of Deputies Defense Committee. In 2018, exports of weapons and military equipment were CZK 14 billion, and in 2017 CZK 15.1 billion. Official figures for last year will be known around mid-year. If the estimates are confirmed, it would be one of the best results in recent years.

2016 was the best year for Czech arms exports at CZK 18.24 billion. In 2018, most Czech companies exported to neighboring countries, the United States, Vietnam, Brazil, and the Middle East.

Entrepreneurs and firms wishing to export or import military equipment must apply to the authorities for appropriate authorization.

Hynek told the committee that the AOBP would like to see a more pragmatic licensing policy. The ministry denied eight export applications last year.

Credit: Eurozpravy