The Economic Importance of the Cultural Industry in Austria

The study systematically captures and quantifies the contribution of arts and culture to overall economic value added and employment in Austria. Building on the methodological framework of the previous WIFO study from 2020, the study first establishes a statistical and conceptual definition of the cultural economy within the System of National Accounts (SNA), supplemented by a separate analysis of the Austrian Federal Theaters and the effects on cultural tourism. The overall economic effects, including direct and indirect impacts, are quantified using the WIFO simulation model ASCANIO and presented in terms of gross value added, employment, and public revenue. Additionally, the development of government funding for culture is analyzed based on the COFOG classification system.