Czech glass production down

The total production of both glass and ceramics in the Czech Republic fell to approximately 1.8 million tonnes last year, while sales in the sector increased by approximately Kc3 billion to a total of Kc52.7 billion, according to a report by the Glass and Ceramics Industry (ASKP) in its annual report.

The number of staff also reportedly decreased to approximately 34,000; some 800 fewer than in 2006.

The report states that despite this fall in production, glass manufacturers for the construction and automotive industries registered the largest revenues and sales of flat glass increased by 11% to Kc17.8 billion.

In terms of exports, the report documented a year-on-year increase of approximately 2.4%, in spite of the firming of the Czech crown, which is claimed to have affected glassmakers in addition to the recent global financial crisis. As a result of this, one of the largest Czech glass and china groups, Bohemia Crystalex Trading is said to be facing serious financial problems.

Imports have grown at a faster rate than exports according to the report, with the import of glass and ceramics up by almost 6% in comparison with 2006, reaching Kc19.3 billion.