Energy prices threatening Czech industry

Several major Czech companies have warned that continued increases in energy prices could force them to shut down their operations. The Confederation of Industry says sectors such as steelmaking, chemicals, glassmaking and building-materials production are likely to be among the hardest hit.

Industry Minister Karel Havlíček (ANO) told Czech Television that the government is preparing measures to help businesses, including a possible across-the-board cap on electricity and gas prices for both producers and suppliers. Havlíček said, however, that the situation is not yet critical.

Meanwhile, the opposition has warned against blanket measures and their potential impact on the state budget. It also stressed the need for the government to seek solutions at EU level.