Business opportunities in Austria promoted

Austria’s allure as a dynamic European Union member state and the excellent bilateral relations with Malta were the focus of an Austrian Business Forum organised in collaboration with the Malta Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The aim of the business forum was to enhance the business development opportunities between both countries; as a business partner, Austria offers excellent business opportunities for companies of various sizes.

Michael Berger, commercial consul of the Austrian Chamber of Commerce, reported that in 2015 alone, Malta exported €12 million worth of goods to Austria.

Major commodity groups included cruise ships, toys, electronic goods, and pharmaceutical and chemical products.

At the same time, Malta imported €39,3 million worth of goods from Austria, namely wood, natural and cultured pearls, precious and semi-precious stones, machinery and mechanical appliances, jewellery and beverages.

As to the exchange of services, Maltese exports to Austria rose by 51% in 2015 to €103 million, while imports from Austria increased by 15% to €111 million.

Berger emphasised the promising markets and sectors with a wide range of business opportunities and interesting prospects of cooperation for both Austrian and Maltese companies.

Sectors of particular interest included tourism and leisure, yachting, environmental technology, renewable energy, life sciences, finance and banking, gaming and related IT & ICT services, and cooperation on projects in third party countries.

Minister Chris Cardona addressing the Australian Business Forum

Malta’s strategic importance as a gateway to North Africa was highlighted, as was the successful joint venture between Malta International Airport and Vienna International Airport.

Christian Cardona, minister for the economy, investment and small business, praised the long history of healthy trade and diplomatic relations between Malta and Austria.

He noted there were 419 Austrian companies with a shareholding in Maltese companies and said that the business forum would help strengthen the commercial relations between both countries.

Michael J. Bianchi, honorary consul general of Austria and Michael Schwarzinger, the non-resident Austrian Ambassador, also addressed the forum.