Best time for state to sell firm Explosia this or next year, says Havlíček

If a decision is made to sell the Czech state-owned company Explosia, it would be best to do so this year or in 2027, says Minister of Industry and Trade Karel Havlíček.

Speaking on a Sunday online show hosted by journalist Václav Moravec, Mr. Havlíček said there were currently six potential buyers interested in acquiring the manufacturer of explosives and propellants, which is based in Pardubice.

Mr.  Havlíček said if the sale went ahead the ideal scenario would be for the state to retain a stake in Explosia, whose best-known product is Semtex, and thus retain influence over the company’s future operations.