If the Slovak government does not immediately take systemic measures in the economy, the coming months will be fatal for many industries in the country, the Slovak Republican Union of Employers said. In their opinion, plant closures and mass layoffs may become a reality in the near future.
“In a few months, a large number of factories have already reduced or stopped production altogether. I’m sure there will be more. Therefore, the Slovak government needs to act decisively in the negotiations in Brussels when it comes to finding solutions to support the economy and business in Europe and Slovakia. As for the seriousness of the situation, we are convinced that our government can find support for a solution from the governments of other EU member states,” President Miroslav Kiralvarga said at a press conference.
In turn, the President of the Union of Woodworkers Peter Zemanik noted that employers in the construction, woodworking and furniture sectors see the fall in demand and the gradual loss of competitiveness as their main problems.
“The difference in energy prices in Central Europe is so striking that in Slovakia we are not able to produce products that could compete on price with foreign ones. With current energy prices and zero support measures from the state, this is impossible, even despite the savings,” he said.
Problems were also identified by representatives of the cement industry and food manufacturers.
“Sellers without contractually guaranteed prices are currently forced to buy gas and electricity at ruinous prices, which means an increase in energy costs by almost 570%. Food production processes raw materials of agriculture. Therefore, the interruption of production is impossible, and its complete cessation will have fatal consequences for animal husbandry”, said Robert Kichina, First Vice President of the Slovak Chamber of Food.
Recall that Slovakia supports the anti-Russian sanctions imposed by the European Union. At the same time, the republic is almost completely dependent on Russian energy supplies.
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