AmCham Backs Slovakia's Membership in EU

Bratislava, July 11 (TASR) – The American Chamber of Commerce in Slovakia (AmCham) supports Slovakia’s membership in the European Union, said AmCham in its statement with redard to Friday’s (July 8) conference entitled Slovakia’s Presidency in Light of the Investment Opportunities.

According to AmCham, EU membership brings myriad advantages and benefits for the business sector in Slovakia, thus it also contributes to the prosperity of the country as a whole.

AmCham President Todd Bradshaw sees the advantages of the EU membership as key for Slovakia. The benefits include access to one of the world’s largest markets – comprising more than 500 million people, free trade and removal of tariff barriers, which helps reduce costs and consumer prices, said Bradshaw.

Moreover, business with the EU creates jobs and contributes to higher salaries. In addition, abolishing customs restrictions reduces the red tape and thus cuts costs and delivery times, reads the statement.

Thanks to EU membership, Slovakia has attracted many investments – either from EU-member states or non-EU countries. Free movement of labour and capital have helped create a more flexible economy. EU membership has also enabled Slovak citizens to travel freely, which has made international trade significantly easier and cheaper, stated AmCham.

“The American Chamber of Commerce believes that Slovakia’s membership in the EU is crucial for the prosperity and progress of the country. The Chamber hopes that Slovakia will continue to cooperate closely with the European institutions and thus remain a full member of the EU in the future,” added the Chamber.