Babiš says state considering sale of explosives maker Explosia

The Czech state is considering selling Explosia, Prime Minister Andrej Babiš (ANO) said on Friday after visiting the Pardubice-based producer of explosives and ammunition.

Babiš said interest in the company had been expressed by France through President Emmanuel Macron, as well as by other European firms. According to the prime minister, Explosia has seen a sharp rise in revenues in recent years.

Babiš said he would personally support a sale if the conditions were favourable for the Czech state and preserved the company’s ties with the Czech army. He added that proceeds from any future deal could potentially be used for defence investments linked to Czechia’s NATO commitments.