Economic relations with Ukraine at risk?
politics
Managers from Salzburg companies also hope that the political dispute between Russia and Ukraine will not develop into a war. In addition to the Russian Federation, the Ukraine is also an important trading partner for Salzburg’s economy. Around 40 companies are directly represented there.
With a good thousand employees, the largest company in the Ukraine with roots in Salzburg is a Kronospan plant belonging to the Kaindl industrial families. The winter sports group Blizzard produces its cheaper skis in southern Ukraine. Wiberg spices have their own sales organization in the capital, Kiev.
Cooperation as a basis for peace
Thomas Albrecht is head of the office for foreign trade at the Salzburg Chamber of Commerce: “Economic cooperation ensures stability and also peace.”
In any case, the Salzburg companies with close business ties to the Ukraine are preparing. Martin Panosch is honorary consul for the reliable state in Salzburg: “Do everything you can to ensure the security of the computer systems, plus emergency plans if parts of the workforce are drafted into the military because of acts of war – these are my two tips for companies.”
Good business with Ukrainian partners
Salzburg company is currently exporting goods worth 38 million euros to the Ukraine. Goods are imported for around 28 million euros annually.