Blog Automotive company representatives met with the minister.

A key gathering of automotive sector companies from the South Bohemian Region took place on Friday, September 9th, in Hluboká nad Vltavou, bringing together regional government officials, national authorities, and representatives of the Association of the Automotive Industry (AutoSAP). "The primary goal was to discuss mutual requirements and suggestions from companies directed toward regional officials. We touched on Industry 4.0, labor market issues, education, as well as transport infrastructure," stated Miroslav Dvořák, Vice President of the organizing Association of the Automotive Industry and CEO of MOTORU JIKOV Group a.s.
The event was also attended by Minister of Industry and Trade Jan Mládek. Highlighting measures to support the automotive industry, Minister Mládek emphasized the Operational Programme Entrepreneurship and Innovation for Competitiveness (OP PIK) for the period 2014—2020, the TRIO research and development program, investment incentives, and the development of industrial zones. "OP PIK has a broader scope than previous programs, focusing primarily on developing innovative technologies that enhance the competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises. It also promotes greater involvement of public universities and research institutions, emphasizes efficient energy use and renewable energy sources, and importantly, concentrates on developing next-generation networks for high-speed internet access," explained Minister Jan Mládek.

The invitation was extended to nine AutoSAP member companies and seven other non-member organizations from the automotive field. Radní for Education in the South Bohemian Region, Tomeš Vytiska, accepted the invitation. Representatives from the employment office, tax office, University of Technology and Economics, South Bohemian Chamber of Commerce, and police were also present.
The Association of the Automotive Industry (AutoSAP) is a professional trade organization representing Czech manufacturers of vehicles, parts, and accessories. It is not an employer association. Its activities include various non-manufacturing organizations closely connected to the automotive sector, such as universities. AutoSAP is currently the only national association operating in this field, with 149 members. Members of AutoSAP contribute over 20% of the Czech industry’s production and exports, employing more than 115,000 workers.