Economic Mission: Smart Industry and Defence to the Czech Republic with Vice-Minister for Foreign Economic Relations Michiel Sweers

News item | 29-06-2026 | 15:40

The Netherlands is organizing an economic mission to the Czech Republic, led by Michiel Sweers, Vice-Minister for companies active in the smart manufacturing industry and/or the defence, security and the dual-use sector.

Why the Czech Republic?

​​​​​​The Czech Republic is one of the most developed industrial economies in Central Europe. Key industries include high-tech manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, robotics, precision engineering, and defence. The defence industry is growing rapidly, with significant investments in modernization and innovation.
The country boasts a wealth of technical expertise and a strategic location within Europe. Additionally, the government actively encourages investment in innovation, digitalization, and defence technology.

The Czech Republic has an extensive network of professional and internationally oriented companies. There are opportunities for collaboration with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and suppliers in the manufacturing industry, as well as chances to join innovation programs in defence, mobility, energy, and digitalization.

Sectors

The mission is intended for Dutch companies and knowledge institutions active in the following sectors:

Smart Manufacturing (Advanced Manufacturing)

  • Mechanical engineering and high-value components
  • Automotive industry
  • Semiconductors
  • Aerospace
  • Metalworking technology
  • Photonics, laser technology, and optical industry

Defence, Security, and Dual-Use Technologies

  • Electronics, sensors, and electronic warfare
  • Passive surveillance and radar technology
  • Secure communication and connectivity
  • Unmanned systems, drones, and counter-UAS solutions
  • Maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO)
  • Land systems, including armored vehicles, platforms, and subsystems
  • Simulation and training systems
  • Advanced materials and composites
  • Dual-use and cybersecurity technologies

Opportunities for Dutch Organizations

The Czech Republic offers an interesting market for Dutch companies and knowledge institutions active in smart manufacturing, defence, security, and dual-use technologies. The country provides opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and knowledge exchange.

During this four-day mission, the Dutch companies will:

  • Establish new contacts with organizations and companies in the Czech Republic active in smart manufacturing, defence, security, and dual-use technologies;
  • Gain insight into the Czech market and the latest developments;
  • Discover new business opportunities;
  • Present your products, services, or knowledge to potential partners;
  • Participate in individual matchmaking meetings tailored to your organization and goals;
  • Visit the International Engineering Fair (MSV) in Brno.

During the mission, there will also be opportunities to sign contracts or a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in the presence of Michiel Sweers and the Dutch Ambassador to the Czech Republic, Mina Noor. This can generate additional attention for your project, collaboration, or investment.

More information for Dutch companies can be found on the RVO webpage.