Austria: A Strategic Gateway to European Markets
Austria offers significant market potential with a population of 9.1 million and serves as a strategic hub for accessing the DACH region (Germany, Austria, Switzerland) and Central and Eastern Europe. With its strong economic ties and central location, Austria is an ideal test market for the economically powerful DACH region.
Renowned for its commitment to sustainability, Austria leads in areas such as recycling rates and sustainable energy production. It is also a key player in Europe’s life sciences sector, home to a vibrant ecosystem of SMEs and multinational corporations.
Austria’s central European location positions it as a vital link between Eastern and Western Europe. Its highly developed and efficient transport infrastructure enhances connectivity, while ongoing advancements in green logistics and sustainability practices strengthen its appeal as a modern business hub.
Establishing a physical presence in Austria is crucial for effective collaboration, fostering strong relationships with local partners, acquiring customers, and strengthening sales representation. Austria also plays a pivotal role in enhancing brand visibility and expanding market presence across Europe.
Operating costs in Austria remain highly competitive. The country is recognized as a "Strong Innovator," with above-average growth in R&D spending. International companies appreciate Austria’s favourable R&D environment, supported by attractive incentives and an investor-friendly tax framework.
Vienna, the capital, is not only the headquarters of numerous international organizations but is also regarded as the most liveable city in the EU. The broader Vienna region, along with cities like Graz, Linz, Innsbruck, and Salzburg, as well as rural areas, offer excellent conditions for international business operations.
Austria boasts a robust industrial base, with strengths in sectors such as mechanical engineering, gas and heat supply, electronics, automotive, chemicals, and food production. The ICT sector is particularly dynamic, with a significant number of startups and a rising share of investments targeting green and social impact ventures.
Support for International Investors
Invest in Austria provides tailored assistance throughout all stages of business establishment, from initial planning to post-establishment support. It actively promotes Austria as a business destination and helps international companies navigate the expansion and investment process.
The Team Finland Network supports Finnish companies by facilitating connections and offering valuable insights into the local business environment. It assists companies in overcoming trade barriers, organizing business visits in cooperation with Business Finland, and managing export licensing for dual-use products in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence. Additionally, support for trade with developing countries is available through development finance instruments such as Finnfund, Finnpartnership, and the Public Sector Investment Facility (PIF).
FinnCham Austria is the ideal business platform for Finnish companies in Austria. Austrian companies interested in doing business with Finland are also members of the FinnCham Austria.
The article is based on presentations given at the seminar on Expand Your Business to the DACH Region - Why Austria is The Ideal Gateway in Helsinki on the 10th of April 2025. The event was co-organized by the FinnCham Austria, Finland Chamber of Commerce, the Helsinki Region Chamber of Commerce and Enterprise Europe Network. The event was also arranged in Turku on the 9th of April 2025 and was co-organized by World Trade Center Turku, Enterprise Europe Network, Vienna Business Agency, Austria Business Agency and FinnCham Austria.
Watch the seminar stream here:
Expand Your Business to the DACH Region – Why Austria is the Ideal Gateway 10.4.2025 - Icareus Suite
Read the presentations at the link below:
DACH region - Why Austria is the Ideal Gateway 10.4.2025.pdf
For more information, see the websites:
Team Finland: https://www.team-finland.fi/en
FinnCham Austria: https://finncham.at/fi/
ABA Invest in Austria: aba.gv.at/en/
Vienna Business Agency: www.viennabusinessagency.at
Enterprise Europe Network: https://www.een.fi/
Anne Hatanpää
Liaison Manager, International Affairs, Finland Chamber of Commerce
April 2025
