China’s Investment in the Czech Republic: Much ado About Nothing?

Abstract

China is a relative newcomer to Central Europe and as such could not utilize previously established links or knowledge of local languages or the political and economic environment. However, it has been using a variety of tools in order to increase its visibility and establish its positive image; including foreign direct investment (FDI). This article provides a brief assessment of China’s recent political and economic performance in the Czech Republic and debates the opportunities and challenges the Czech experience with China provides to other Asian (mostly Japanese and South Korean) investors.