Slovakia scored low in economic freedom ranking

Slovakia ranked 65th out of 180 countries and last in the central European region in the economic freedom ranking by the Heritage foundation. According to this American institution, the problems are low austerity measures, the inflexibility of the labour market, a lack of reforms and corruption. "Slovakia is an over-regulated country and entrepreneurs have difficulties not to breach the law," said Matúš Pošvanc of the F. A. Hayek foundation. Hong Kong ranked first for the 25th time in a row since 1995, followed by Singapore, New Zealand, Switzerland and Australia. As far as Slovakia's neighbours are concerned, the Czech Republic ended 23rd, Austria 31st, Poland 46th and Hungary 64th right ahead of Slovakia. Other European countries which scored low were France in 71st position and Italy in 80th place.