The Czech Republic serves as an entry point to the Central and Eastern European markets, being one of the fastest-growing economies in Europe and one of the most developed countries from the former Soviet bloc. Dried nuts and fruits, fish, food preparations, wine, and spirits are some of the country’s top imports from the food and beverages category. Key trends in 2025 include growing dependence on imports due to domestic capacity constraints, surging demand for convenience and ethnic foods, and increasing focus on sustainability and pricing pressures.

The Czech Republic has one of the most developed and industrialized economies in Central and Eastern Europe. Its strong industrial tradition dates to the 19th century when Bohemia and Moravia were the industrial heartlands of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Czech agriculture is also among the most advanced in Eastern Europe, with better than average yields. The country does not suffer from a shortage of agricultural land, but its land is used far less efficiently than that in Western Europe.

As a medium-sized, open, export-driven economy, the Czech Republic is heavily dependent on foreign demand, especially from the Eurozone. In 2024, food imports comprised 6.75% of total goods imports—up from 6.35% in 2023—indicating steady growth in the sector

Food producers looking to work with Czech food importers and distributors, there are a lot of positive aspects: English is widely spoken in the business world; being part of the EU, the legislation is solid and quite business-friendly; the infrastructure is excellent and the connections with the rest of the world is easy.

Supplier Landscape & Trade Origins

The majority of agricultural imports (~€15.3 billion in 2023) originate from EU partners: Germany, Poland, Netherlands, Slovakia; U.S. accounts for ~0.93% (€143 million), steadily growing. Czech farmers have staged protests since 2023 against cheap imports (Ukraine, Mercosur), highlighting tensions between domestic producers and importers

Meat Imports

Meat (especially pork, poultry and beef) is one of the most consumed food types, like in most European countries. Imports have increased in the last years, especially beef imports. Even though the country is self-sufficient in the category of poultry, beef remains a top imported product. The country reached US$1.855 billion worth of meat products imported in 2024.
Poland, Belgium, the Netherlands and Spain are the main suppliers.

Fish and Seafood Imports

As Czech consumers move toward a healthier diet and lifestyle, fish consumption is on the rise. Being a country surrounded exclusively by land, the Czech Republic does not have a major source for fish and seafood.

Thailand, South Korea and the Netherlands are the major suppliers and imports reached US$388 million in 2024.

Other health foods and snacks are also gaining popularity quite fast. For nuts and Vegetables, Spain, Romania, Poland and Slovakia are the leading suppliers. This category is almost entirely covered by Eurozone imports.

Food Import Insights

1. Value-added processed goods (vegetable/fruit prep, baby food, snack items) are strong targets due to urban lifestyles and demand for convenience.
2. Ethnic & specialty foods gain traction as demographic diversity and consumer exploration grow—importers diversify sourcing.
3. EU origin goods remain dominant, but U.S. and non-EU suppliers are gaining presence—highlight U.S. quality and traceability.
4. Monitor regulatory climate: farmer protests underscore protectionist sentiment—importers should align with domestic interest and compliance.
5.  Emphasize sustainability: packaging, carbon footprint, and local value messaging resonate with Czech buyers and policymakers.

Understanding Czech consumers

The Czech market is usually dominated by price-sensitive customers. Price is the major purchasing factor for most Czech consumers, however, awareness of quality, health benefits and food safety issues is increasing.

Czech millennials enjoy trying food and beverage novelties, new shopping experiences, convenience products, and snacks. The older generation tends to stick to their shopping habits, a preferred retailer and has an above-average affinity to promotions.

In recent years, there has been a shift in the market, towards high-quality foods and towards prestigious brands, over unknown names and law-cost competitors.

3 Food Importers from the Czech Republic:

1. Abasto
   Address: Obchodní Zóna, K Třešňovce 1348, Revnice
   Phone: 00420 737 246 195
   Website: www.abasto.cz
2.  Aldem
   Address:Dušní 112/16, Prague
   Phone: 00420 774 207 645
   Website: www.aldem.cz
3. Belvec
   Address:Statenická 732, Velké Prílepy
   Phone:00420 226 066 729
   Website: www.belvec.cz

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