Tie-up with Kerala IT to benefit German-speaking EU market: Austrian Trade official

Trade Commissioner and Commercial Counsellor Hans-Joerg Hoertnagl visits Technopark

 

Thiruvananthapuram, Aug. 19: Austria and other German-speaking European markets can benefit immensely by striking strategic partnerships with startups and IT and ITEs companies in Kerala, AustrianTrade Commissioner and Commercial Counsellor, Mr Hans-Joerg Hoertnag noted today.

“India could be an excellent partner for Austria in IT/ITes services,”Mr Hoertnagl  said during a visit to Technopark in the city.

“The German-speaking market is the largest in European Union (EU) after the exit of the UK, and Austria is the heart of that ecosystem,” Mr Hoertnagl said during an interaction with officials of Technopark and representatives of G-Tech, KSUM and ICT Academy at Technopark.

Four startup delegations from India visited Austria in one-and-a-half years to explore the German-speaking market, Mr Hoertnagl said.

Shri Vasanth Varada, DGM, Customer Relationships, Technopark, made a detailed presentation on the achievements of Technopark, which is India’s first IT Park, and the vibrant ecosystem of the state. 

“About 150 Austrian companies have been established in different sectors in India. Our strong area is automotive supply chain and manufacturing of prototypes of engines. We are also active in sectors like hydro power plants, airport communication systems and supplying of fire fighting vehicles at Indian airports,” he said.  

According to him, the serious problem in Europe after Covid-19 is that young people are reluctant to work and the ageing of the society.

“For startups, Austria offers all supports including assistance from nine regional chambers and Austrian Business Agency.  A startup hub has been set up at University of Vienna to foster entrepreneurship among students,” the official informed. 

Austrian companies are engaged in various projects across the country, including traffic management, toll systems, cable car project at Kasi temple, e-waste technology and green-tech projects. 

Shri Muraleedharan Manningal, CEO, ICT Academy Kerala; IT Fellows of Government of Kerala Shri Vishnu V Nair, Ms Bhamini, Ms Divya and Shri Prajeet Prabhakaran; Shri Eapen Tony, CEO, G-Tech and Members of G-Tech business focus group were also present.