display

Dresden (dpa / sn) - The Czech Republic is becoming increasingly important as an export country for Saxony, according to the economy.

For the first time, the neighboring country of Great Britain could replace third place this year, estimates the Association of Saxon Businesses (VSW).

This moves the Saxon neighbor up one place in the ranking of the most important export destination countries.

The main reason is the sharp decline in exports to Great Britain, it said.

Above all, Saxony sells cars, machines and metal products to the neighboring country.

Exports fell by six percent between January and September - albeit less than total exports (-14 percent).

In 2019, goods worth more than two billion euros were exported to the Czech Republic - a total of 40 billion euros.

In contrast, exports to Great Britain have plummeted, according to the information - in the first nine months of the year by 21 percent.

The transition phase will expire at the end of December - and the EU's future trade relations with the Kingdom have not yet been clarified.

Without a corresponding agreement between the EU and Great Britain, there is a risk of new tariffs.

Since 2012, Great Britain has been Saxony's third most important export country - after China and the USA.

display

According to VSW, two out of five industrial jobs in Saxony are directly dependent on exports.

"That is why the risks of trade disputes are correspondingly great for our economy," said a spokeswoman.

Especially in times when companies are struggling with the effects of the corona crisis, structural change and an economic slump, a no-deal Brexit would have far-reaching economic consequences.

Therefore, a close economic link between the EU and Great Britain must be sought.

Saxony's Minister of Economic Affairs, Martin Dulig (SPD), shares this assessment.

"We are happy to help companies who are looking for a new location in the EU due to Brexit or who generally want to settle in Europe with all the means that are available to us through funding programs and our economic development."

Dulig pointed out that Saxony had strengthened its cooperation with its direct neighbors in recent years.

The Czech Republic and Poland, but also the Netherlands, Austria and Switzerland played an increasingly important role for Germany and Saxony.

The world is being re-sorted in terms of trade.

"The motto is: Strengthen Europe and work together."