Future of industry: Kari Ochsner about prosperity and sustainability in Lower Austria

Future of industry: Kari Ochsner about prosperity and sustainability in Lower Austria

Niederösterreich, Österreich - In the current "Peter & Paul Economic Talk", Kari Ochsner, President of the Lower Austria Industrial Association and CEO of Ochsner, emphasizes the importance of industry for Austria's prosperity. In the discussion, Ochsner addresses the future viability of the industrial location of Austria and the need to face strong international competition. It underlines the performance principle that is essential for the preservation of quality of life and social security, and criticizes the idea that less work is feasible without wage compensation. "Little work and full payment is simply not feasible for the companies," says Ochsner and points out that Austria works comparatively little in an international comparison (1,400 hours a year) in contrast to other countries, which is not sustainable.

sustainability and international trade relationships

The topic of sustainability is highlighted by Ochsner as an integral part of industrial development. His company has been a pioneer in the production of heat pumps since the 1970s and has continuously invested in environmental technologies. This is also considered directional by industry throughout Austria in order to make a contribution to future generations. Furthermore, Ochsner expresses concerns about the international trade agreement, especially in view of the possible re -election of Donald Trump and his effects on tariffs and trade relationships. Ochsner warns that protectionist measures could harm globalization and calls for strengthening free trade, in particular through agreements such as Mercosur, which are decisive for Austria's competitiveness in an increasingly internationalized market, as is also explained by the SWP thinking factory.

The discussion is also the challenge that Austria should not develop into a part -time company, as this could endanger competitiveness. "We have to make sure that there are not too many part -time workers, that will affect productivity," explains Ochsner, and he points out that young workers who prefer part -time must be offered more realistic perspectives for the future. The industry community is aware of the responsibility towards the company and relies on progress in industry in order to be able to work sustainably while at the same time the competitiveness is maintained.

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