Why this is important to Wisconsin businesses: Wisconsin companies with specialty food products may find receptive markets there.
People in the Czech Republic are reaching for premium products when they shop for food.
The Czech food industry is logging steady growth as incomes rise and the population grows. After two years of inflation and high costs, the economy showed improvement in 2024, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS).
While many residents are still looking for low prices, a growing segment of the population—especially in the big cities—is seeking high-quality products and foods with health benefits. The capital city of Prague, a major tourist destination, is also the seventh-wealthiest region in the European Union (EU).
Czech food processing revenue is expected to reach $1.5 billion by 2028, up from $1.4 billion in 2023, FAS said.
The food retail sector was $54.7 billion in 2024. Private label products of the major retail chains have been gaining popularity.
In the food service industry, sales increased 5% to $3.5 billion in 2024. With the country’s economic growth, some residents were willing to spend more on fine dining. In addition, demand for food delivery is boosting third-party platforms that handle home deliveries.
The Czech Republic is a promising market for high-value U.S. food and agricultural products,
including tree nuts, fish and seafood, beef, distilled spirits, wine, and various food preparations, the 2025 FAS report said.
In 2024, Czech’s agricultural product imports reached $15.2 billion, including $172 million from U.S. suppliers, a 16% increase over 2023. That moved the U.S. up from 21st-largest ag and food supplier to 16th place. Germany is the country’s biggest trade partner,
The sector is dominated by major players such as the Czech conglomerate Agrofert, while international companies like Nestlé and Mondelez also have a significant presence.
The Czech market presents promising opportunities for Wisconsin companies that export consumer-oriented agricultural products. However, producers should be aware that food companies typically do not buy directly from non-EU suppliers. They prefer to work with specialized traders, both local and from other EU countries, who are experienced in dealing with overseas producers.
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