Slovaks have become accustomed to the euro currency, and most of them consider it a positive thing, according to the results of the Eurobarometer survey conducted in October 2018. Slovakia adopted the euro as a common currency one decade ago, on January 1, 2009. According to the survey, 68% of Slovaks perceive the euro as a good thing. At the same time, 79% of Slovaks think the euro is good for the European Union as a whole. They have no problem at all recognizing the banknotes and coins. Nevertheless, up to 73% of Slovaks would consider canceling the 1 and 2 cent euro coins.
The common European currency, the euro, has become a success story in Slovakia since it was introduced ten years ago, chiefly in terms of creating currency stability for the country, Slovak Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SOPK) president Peter Mihok told TASR press agency. "The euro has also reduced transaction costs - a significant element for Slovakia as a highly export-oriented country. When Slovakia had its own currency, it needed to buy a different currency, while the exchange rate depended on the koruna's cycles - it was up one moment and down another. The introduction of the euro has simplified transaction costs for companies and has thus made foreign business operations far more transparent," said Mihok. A liberalisation of prices took place in Slovakia before the adoption of the euro in 2009, so no significant price increases coincided with this event.
