It provided the opportunity to reflect on the current and future state of South Tyrol’s economy, focusing on crucial topics such as the labour market, international competitiveness and energy, as well as the challenges facing key sectors including tourism and agriculture.
Participants in the discussion included Evelyn Kirchmaier, Managing Director of Markas; Luis Walcher, Provincial Councillor; Alexander Rieper, President of Confindustria Alto Adige; and Michl Ebner, President of the Bolzano Chamber of Commerce.
One of the main topics that kept emerging throughout the discussions, was clearly the strong economic relationship between South Tyrol and Austria, not only in terms of trade and cooperation, but also as a strategic partnership for addressing shared challenges together.
‘Visiting Markas clearly demonstrates the strength of the economic ties between South Tyrol and Austria. One in every ten euros Austria earns from exports comes from South Tyrol. It is a close partnership that we are committed to strengthening even further’ Minister Wolfgang Hattmannsdorfer emphasised. ‘We are also united by a shared vision: the belief that success, especially in a complex economic landscape, depends on commitment, innovation and international openness’ he added.
“The dialogue with Wolfgang Hattmannsdorfer and leading representatives of our region’s economy is a valuable opportunity for Markas to be actively involved in the key challenges shaping South Tyrol’s future,” Evelyn Kirchmaier said. “As a company with strong local roots and an international outlook, we see ourselves as a bridge between the business community and public institutions. Open dialogue is essential if we are to address the challenges ahead, from the labour market and energy issues to long-term competitiveness’.
The rest of the participants further highlighted the importance of strengthening cooperation between South Tyrol and Austria with discussions were mainly focusing on the region’s shared priorities, including tourism and agriculture, the role of industry and manufacturing, as well as energy, transport, international competitiveness and the labour market.
Overall, the meeting reaffirmed the importance of dialogue between businesses and institutions in navigating ongoing economic change and strengthening ties between South Tyrol and Austria.
For Markas, hosting this event was a meaningful way to enhance cross-border exchange and encourage discussion on the key issues shaping the future of the local economy.
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