Thursday, 9 April 2026
Slovak business owners continue to hold the strongest position among foreign investors in Czech companies, extending a trend that has been building for years. The latest data from Dun & Bradstreet shows that their presence has reached a new peak, underlining how closely connected the two economies remain.
The appeal of the Czech market for Slovak entrepreneurs is rooted in a combination of practical and historical factors. The ease of communication, similar regulatory environments and long-standing economic links make it relatively straightforward to operate across the border. This is further reinforced by the steady movement of people between the two countries, particularly students who often transition into business activity after completing their studies.
Beyond Slovakia, the structure of foreign ownership in Czech companies is gradually evolving. Investors from Ukraine remain a major group, although their numbers have stabilised after a period of rapid expansion. In contrast, the presence of owners connected to Russia has fallen sharply in recent years, reflecting wider geopolitical developments and the impact of sanctions.
At the same time, neighbouring countries are becoming more visible in the ownership landscape. Entrepreneurs from Hungary and Poland are steadily increasing their involvement, pointing to a broader shift in investment patterns within Central Europe. Rather than a decline in foreign participation, the data suggests a re-balancing towards regional capital.
The overall number of Czech companies with foreign ownership has seen a slight decrease, but this appears to be linked more to restructuring and changing business strategies than to any loss of interest in the market itself. Companies across Europe have been adjusting their portfolios in response to economic uncertainty, leading to a more selective approach to expansion.
The relationship between the Czech Republic and Slovakia remains particularly strong in both directions. Czech entrepreneurs also represent the largest group of foreign owners in Slovakia, highlighting the depth of integration between the two markets. This mutual presence creates a business environment where cross-border activity is not only common but often essential.
Looking ahead, the Czech market is likely to continue attracting investors from across the region, supported by its stable economic framework and strategic position within Europe. While global factors will continue to influence investment decisions, the growing role of Central European capital suggests that regional connections will play an increasingly important role in shaping ownership trends.
