We support the development of the Middle Corridor

Caspian Energy (CE): What are your ministry’s key priorities for boosting industrial growth and innovation in Czechia?

Lukáš Vlček, Minister for Industry and Trade of the Czech Republic:  The Ministry of Industry and Trade aims at transforming Czechia into a leading European hub for advanced industry, clean technologies, and digital innovation. This forward-looking strategy is rooted in the Smart Specialisation Strategy, targeting the country’s strongest technological domains and regional strengths to deliver focused, high-impact growth. The national plan prioritizes innovation-driven development, energy resilience, and global competitiveness, while leveraging Czechia’s scientific excellence and industrial know-how.

Czechia is positioning itself as a leader in Europe’s industrial transformation – promoting innovation, embracing digital technologies, and leading the green transition. Our goal is clear: to build an economy that is smarter, cleaner, and globally competitive. Through investment in research and innovation, support for businesses, and targeted backing of key sectors and strategic technologies – such as artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, and semiconductors – we are creating the conditions for long-term and sustainable industrial growth. Czech industry is not adapting to the future – we are actively shaping it.

By aligning our industrial strategy with Smart Specialisation and supporting strategic technologies, such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors and quantum technologies, Czechia is ready to lead Europe’s next industrial chapter - cleaner, smarter, and more innovative than ever before. The strategy is backed by national and EU resources, including OP TAK, the National Recovery Plan, and Smart Specialisation-based funding, forming one of the most comprehensive industrial transformations in Central Europe.