Position of Slovak Republic in Global Value Chains

Research background: It is sometimes said that the global economy can be viewed either through the economic growth and structural changes in individual countries, or through global value chains (GVC). Slovak Republic is a small economy in the center of Europe that is widely open in collaboration with other countries. Intensive involvement in international trade and global value chains is an effective way of improving Slovakia's position in the global market. However, participation in only low-value-added activities disables Slovakia from developing and future prosperity, and at the same time intensifies the country's vulnerability and dependency on its European neighbors. Purpose of the article: Introduce up-to-date data about the emplacement of Slovak Republic in the global economy and GVC. Identify possible opportunities for Slovakia to improve its position in the global economy through the lens of modern mega trends in global supply chain management. Methods: In the article, taking into account its nature, we mainly use descriptive and analytical methods. To illustrate the position of the Slovak Republic in the global market, we will use the value of export performance. Findings & Value added: We will analyze and prove, that the traditional rule of expanding domestic value added to increase economic growth seems obsolete and ineffective in up-to-date GVC trends. In the article, we will consider different options for improving Slovakia's position in the global market on the assumption of the strengths and weaknesses of Slovak economy.