Challenges and Determinants of Competitiveness in Times of Global Uncertainty

In spring 2025, WIFO surveyed Austria's largest industrial companies for the fourth time on competitive strategies, value chains, skills development and location policy. In addition to their ability to adapt products to customer requirements, the competitiveness of Austrian companies is based on customer trust and product quality. Competitive disadvantages are identified with regard to digitalisation, the efficiency of production methods and price competitiveness. The willingness of the companies surveyed to relocate at least parts of their production abroad has increased. The current economic uncertainty caused by global risk factors is inhibiting investment and favouring the relocation of production. As a result of the weak industrial economy, companies are likely to have adapted their technological expertise to the changed environment.