Current Insights into Internationalisation, Markets & Opportunities

Review | EXPORT ACADEMY: Customs Knowledge for Exports to Third Countries

How can companies handle their export business outside the EU safely and efficiently? What role do rules of origin, customs procedures, and preference regulations play? These questions were the focus of the EXPORT ACADEMY "Customs Knowledge for Exports to Third Countries," where the ICS welcomed numerous representatives of Styrian companies to CAMPUS 02 on October 21, 2026.

Geopolitics Meets Business

How do geopolitical crises affect companies? Franz-Stefan Gady discusses security, business and competitiveness at the WKO Styria.

“The Power of Wood” – When Wood Becomes the High-Tech Material of the Future

Wood can do much more than serve as a traditional construction and industrial material. The event "The Power of Wood – Future. Innovation. High-Tech Wood" demonstrated the possibilities this raw material offers for mobility, industry, and new energy and logistics solutions.

Indonesian Delegation Visits Styria

In early October, ICS welcomed a delegation from the Indonesian Manpower Services Association (APJATI) to Styria. The focus was on exchanging experiences regarding international skilled professionals and gaining insights into the Styrian business landscape.

Reconstruction of Ukraine: Opportunities for Styrian Companies

The reconstruction of Ukraine is not just a future topic for Styrian companies. Even today, destroyed facilities must be replaced, energy supply secured, and interrupted supply chains restored. The symposium "Reconstruction of Ukraine – Opportunities and Contribution of the Austrian Economy" on October 12, 2026, at Grazer Meerscheinschlössl focused on the economic opportunities arising from this and how companies can position themselves early.

Vocational Training Connects: Exchange with Delegation from Southern Africa

As part of the Dual Education Fact Finding Mission, we had the pleasure of welcoming and accompanying a delegation of experts in vocational education and training from Namibia, Eswatini, South Africa, and Lesotho for a two-day visit to Graz.

Recap: Saudi Arabia in Transition – What Businesses Need to Know Now

One day, one market, many new perspectives: At the Saudi Arabia Day at the ICS, the focus was on a kingdom in transition and the question of what these changes mean for companies wishing to conduct business successfully in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf States. Together with cultural and Middle East expert Dr. Gabi Kratochwil, we examined social developments, cultural characteristics, and business practices in one of the most dynamic markets in the Gulf region.

Recap | Circular Economy Workshop

How can the circular economy be translated from a strategic goal into operational practice? This was exactly the focus of the ICS "Circular Economy" workshop series at the end of September. Together with Bastien Huber from Thinkubator, who provided expert technical guidance for the workshops, participating industrial companies worked with concrete tools, digital solutions, and practical approaches to use resources more efficiently, optimize material and energy consumption, and close loops step by step.<br /> <br />

Innovation in Focus: ICS Visits DCCS

International expansion, new business areas, and the future-oriented topic of humanoid-oriented robotics: How these priorities interact in practice was the focus of a visit to DCCS GmbH in Graz.<br /> During this meeting, Daniela Guß and Abigail Garcia from the Internationalisierungscenter Steiermark met with DCCS Managing Director Thomas Edlinger for a professional exchange on current company developments and international strategies.

From EXPO 2025 back to Eggenberg Palace

Yesterday, the interactive reproduction of the historic Osaka Screen, developed for EXPO 2025 in Osaka, was handed over at Eggenberg Palace. Thanks to an Augmented Reality application, this unique cultural asset can now be discovered in new ways. The handover exemplifies how World Expo projects can continue to have an impact beyond the actual event.

Latvian ITS Delegation Visits Styria

How can digital technologies, automation, and intelligent mobility enable new international collaborations? A delegation from the Latvian ITS ecosystem visited Styria to explore these potentials and deepen contacts with regional technology and industry partners.

Styrian exports 2025: Stable despite challenging framework conditions

Despite a difficult international environment, Styrian goods exports held up relatively well, declining by around 1.0% to 28.2 billion euros. Germany remained the engine of export growth despite subdued economic activity, accounting for around a quarter of all Styrian exports. Markets such as Poland, the Czech Republic and Spain also developed dynamically within Europe.

New EU customs duty on small consignments: What will change for e-commerce imports

As of July 1, 2026, a new customs regime will apply in the European Union for e-commerce consignments from third countries: for goods consignments with a value of less than €150, a flat-rate customs duty of €3 per goods category will be levied in future. The measure is intended to make competition between European and non-European providers fairer and to better manage the increasing workload of customs authorities in online trade.

Company Visit to GEODATA ZT GmbH

How can digital solutions help make international projects even more efficient? That's exactly what we discussed during our company visit to GEODATA ZT GmbH.

Recap: Sustainability Day 2026 | Focus on Competitiveness and the Circular Economy

At the WKO Styria Sustainability Day on June 24, 2026, representatives from business, academia, and practice discussed the role of sustainable business practices in securing the future viability of companies. The ICS was once again represented with an information booth and actively contributed to the program with a panel discussion.

International Talent as a Key to Austria’s Competitiveness

How can international talent help secure the competitiveness of Austria as a business and industrial hub? This was the central question addressed at the "FOCUS INDIA – Talent for Austrian Industry" event, to which the Internationalization Center Styria (ICS) invited representatives from business, academia, and public institutions to Graz.

International Insights for the Next Generation!

In mid-June, on a Friday afternoon, we had the pleasure of welcoming 6th and 7th-grade students from the Akademisches Gymnasium Graz to the ICS, providing them with insights into the world of internationalization and foreign trade.

Styria cooperates with Montenegro

Led by Deputy Governor Manuela Khom and accompanied by Herbert Ritter, Vice President of the Styrian Chamber of Commerce (WKO Styria), a high-level Styrian delegation from politics, business, science and education visited Montenegro. Those represented included, among others, the Internationalisation Center Styria, the two cluster organisations Green Tech Valley and the Wood Cluster Styria, as well as companies and educational institutions.

International Skilled Labor Roadshow in Styria

As part of the DiGEM project, which addresses international skilled labor development alongside market diversification and digitalization, Abigail Garcia from the ICS DiGEM team organized a small corporate roadshow on May 27, 2026, for colleagues from AUSSENWIRTSCHAFT International Skilled Workers from Vienna, São Paulo, and Manila. The goal was to bring the latter directly together with top Styrian companies and provide practical insight into the challenges, needs, and success factors of local talent acquisition.

Team DiGEM @ISEC 2026 in Graz

Organized by AEE INTEC, the conference brought together experts from research, business, industry, and politics to discuss current developments and solutions for the energy transition. The focus was on topics such as renewable heating and cooling systems, integrated energy systems, and innovative technologies for a sustainable energy future.

Economic Delegation from Wuhan Visits Graz

The ICS Internationalization Center Styria, together with the City of Graz, welcomed a high-level economic delegation from Wuhan for an intensive exchange at Graz City Hall. The aim of the visit was to deepen economic relations between Graz and Wuhan and to network companies and institutions in the fields of health, automotive, optoelectronics, and advanced manufacturing.

Recap | Our Economic Delegates’ Consultation Day: Africa, Middle East, Central Asia & Turkey 2026

On June 2, 2026, Graz once again became a hub for international business prospects: numerous export-oriented companies, institutions, and organizations from Styria seized the opportunity for direct exchange with 17 Austrian economic delegates from Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia, and Turkey.

Event Report | International Innovation Scouts Visit Graz

May 27, 2026, was dedicated to innovation, future technologies, exciting insights, and international knowledge exchange: 14 innovation experts from AUSSENWIRTSCHAFT AUSTRIA, active in the most important future markets (including the USA, China, Japan, and India), returned to Graz after two years to complete a diverse program.

Recap | EXPORT ACADEMY: Smart Market Selection

Emerging markets offer export-oriented companies attractive growth prospects. At the same time, they place high demands on strategic clarity, resource planning, and decision-making quality. After all, not every market with potential is automatically the right next step.<br /> <br /> This is exactly where the EXPORT ACADEMY | Smart Market Selection: AI as a compass for emerging markets came in on May 20. In a compact working group, participants analyzed how potential growth markets can be systematically assessed, compared with one another, and translated into a viable export decision.

Young Ideas, Real Businesses: These Were the 2026 Junior Companies

Innovative, committed, and full of entrepreneurial spirit: At the Junior Companies State Competition on May 13, 2026, 15 Junior Companies from ten Styrian schools presented the results of a school year filled with ideas, teamwork, and entrepreneurial practice at the Styrian Economic Chamber.

RECAP | India in the Styrian Spotlight

Last week, Styria was all about economic exchange with India. At the invitation of the ICS, Indian Ambassador Shambhu S. Kumaran visited Styria to discuss the opportunities presented by the planned EU-India Free Trade Agreement and future cooperation, together with Provincial Councillor Willibald Ehrenhöfer and other senior representatives from business, research, and politics.

Company visit to Christof Systems GmbH

On Thursday, April 30, 2026, ICS Managing Director Karl Hartleb visited Christof Systems GmbH together with DiGEM Project Manager Lisa-Maria Katholnig, gaining exclusive insights into a Styrian company that has successfully positioned itself in international growth markets such as Laos.

Recap | EXPORT ACADEMY: Navigating Growth Markets Safely?

How can companies successfully export to growth markets – and how can financing and risks be optimally managed along the way? This was the focus of the Export Academy "Export Financing & Risk Management in Growth Markets" held on April 29, 2026 at ICS.<br /> <br /> 13 participants took the opportunity to gain compact, practice-oriented insights into financing and hedging strategies for international projects – ranging from initial market entry considerations to the implementation of concrete export projects.

International green tech delegations visit Styria

In addition to a timber construction delegation, two other high-level delegations from Latin America used their trip to “Build’n Green 2026” in Vienna to gain a better understanding of Styria as a business location. The visit programme was organised and coordinated by Simone Jelitzka-Kahlen on behalf of ICS.

Inaugural visit of the Georgian Ambassador

At the beginning of May, we had the pleasure of welcoming H.E. Alexander Maisuradze, Ambassador of Georgia to Austria, to the Styrian Chamber of Commerce. Together with Chamber Director Karl-Heinz Dernoscheg, ICS Managing Director Karl Hartleb, and Sandra Tanos, the visit provided an opportunity for an insightful and constructive exchange.

Recap | International timber construction expertise visits Graz

Around 70 representatives from Türkiye, Latin America and Styria met in Graz at the end of April to exchange views on current developments, technologies and cooperation potential in sustainable timber construction. Following “Build’n Green 2026”, the international delegation once again made Styria a meeting place for future-oriented building.

China in Transition: Insights from the Styrian Delegation Trip

China is rolling out the red carpet for Styria – a fact that Governor Mario Kunasek, Deputy Governor Manuela Khom, Provincial Councillor for Transport Claudia Holzer, Provincial Councillor for Economic Affairs Willibald Ehrenhöfer and Provincial Parliament President Gerald Deutschmann, together with leading representatives of Styrian business, were able to see for themselves during a delegation trip to selected provinces of the People’s Republic.

New Opportunities to Combat the Skilled Labor Shortage

How can tourism businesses address the shortage of skilled workers in a sustainable way? This question was the focus of an exclusive ICS event in Graz, which centered on international recruiting opportunities for the Styrian tourism and hospitality industry.<br /> <br /> Together with a delegation of Philippine recruiting agencies, the ICS provided Styrian companies with the opportunity to learn directly about professional methods for international recruitment, establish contacts, and explore specific cooperation possibilities.

Styria Strengthens Presence in China

Where are the markets of tomorrow emerging? For many industries, the answer remains: China. This is precisely why a Styrian delegation with representatives from politics, business, and research is currently on-site to deepen contacts, explore opportunities, and strategically position Styrian companies.<br /> <br /> Led by Governor Mario Kunasek and Deputy Governor Manuela Khom, the trip is accompanied by ICS Managing Director Karl Hartleb along with leading representatives of the business location—including Regional Councilor Willibald Ehrenhöfer, WKO Styria Vice President Herbert Ritter, Managing Director of the Federation of Austrian Industries Christoph Robinson, managing directors of Styrian companies, and commercial attachés from the Foreign Trade Centers.

Nigerian Delegation Visits Styria

In mid-April, the ICS welcomed a high-ranking Nigerian delegation led by UNIDO representatives in Graz. This meeting was made possible by the AEE INTEC organization, which brought the delegation to Styria as part of this year's ISEC conference. Representatives from ministries, business associations, and universities used the visit to explore new cooperation opportunities and further deepen bilateral exchange.

Styria Strengthens Economic Relations with Saudi Arabia

Our country focus on Saudi Arabia continues to gain momentum: During the visit of Saudi Arabian Ambassador Abdullah Tawlah to Styria, the direct exchange with Styrian companies was central. Numerous businesses seized the opportunity to present their activities and plans in the Saudi market – from already established business relationships to concrete market entry strategies.

Progress in the Healthcare Sector: Recap of Health Tech Hub Styria 2026

Around 300 guests from 19 countries made Health Tech Hub Styria 2026 an international meeting point for innovation, cooperation and hands-on networking. Two days full of inspiring conversations, valuable encounters and concrete insights into research, medicine, technology and business once again showed that personal exchange drives progress in the healthcare sector. Under the motto “Waves & Wires – Connecting Minds, Machines and Medicine”, the conference explored the interfaces between neuroscience and AI, bioelectronics and diagnostics, communication and connectivity.

Our 2025 Annual Report is here!

A dynamic and challenging year for Styria’s export economy lies behind us—and at the same time, it is a special anniversary year, as we have been supporting Styrian companies on their path to internationalisation for exactly 20 years.

Central Asian Ambassadors Visit @ ICS

At the end of March, we had the pleasure of welcoming the ambassadors of Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan in Austria to the ICS. Together with ICS Managing Director Karl Hartleb, Honorary Consul Günter Nebel, as well as Wolfgang Schaffer and Michelle Fröhwein from eee group GmbH and Sandra Tanos, an engaging and intensive exchange took place with the diplomatic missions from Central Asia.

Review | ICS @ Founders’ Fair 2026

The Founders' Fair on March 21 at the Messecongress Graz once again sent a strong signal in 2026: it remains a central meeting point for founders and young entrepreneurs – diverse, inspiring, and full of entrepreneurial dynamism.

Saudi Arabia in Focus: Post-Event Report on the Fireside Chat

Saudi Arabia is currently one of the most exciting growth markets worldwide—and this very momentum was at the heart of our fireside chat at the ICS. In a small group, experts and company representatives discussed current developments, strategic perspectives and concrete market-entry options.

Africa is not a country – Export Academy highlighted opportunities for Styrian companies

This was precisely the message at the heart of the Export Academy "Africa is not a country", organised by ICS on March 17, 2026 as part of the EU co-funded project Digital Gateway Emerging Markets (DiGEM). Twelve Styrian companies had the opportunity to learn about economic developments, market potential and concrete business opportunities on the African continent.

Middle East: Current Information for the Economy

Recent developments in the Middle East are causing increased international uncertainty. Since the end of February, there has been a significant escalation following military strikes by the USA and Israel against targets in Iran, as well as subsequent Iranian attacks on territories of other countries in the region. For export-oriented companies, geopolitical tensions can have immediate impacts on supply chains, transport routes, markets, and business partners. To provide companies with rapid and centralized information, the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber has established a Middle East Infopoint.

Company visit to Aqua Engineering GmbH

During our visit to the Styrian company Aqua Engineering GmbH in Stainz at the end of February, it became immediately clear: this internationally experienced engineering company in the field of water and environmental technology is a true pioneer in emerging markets. Managing Director Rudolf Edlinger welcomed us personally and provided a comprehensive overview of the company’s range of services—from drinking water treatment and industrial process water solutions to municipal wastewater plants, as well as engineering, operations, and maintenance services for turnkey plants worldwide.

Company Visit to Resch GmbH

In February, we had the opportunity to visit Resch GmbH in Glojach and take a look behind the scenes of a Styrian innovation company. The company develops and implements modern manufacturing and automation solutions – from battery packaging, CNC machining, and prototype construction to additive manufacturing and customized special solutions for various industries. Particularly noteworthy is the combination of high technological precision, flexible development work, and the ability to quickly implement tailor-made solutions even for complex requirements, a clear competitive advantage in the international arena.

Company Visit @ Animed Service AG

Animed Service AG, founded in 1979 by veterinarians from Styria, is a Styrian veterinary pharmaceutical and service company with over four decades of expertise in animal health. The company develops, produces, and distributes pharmacologically active veterinary medicines, with a focus on livestock practice (e.g., pigs, poultry, cattle, horses), and supports veterinarians with practice-relevant products and services. The offering is complemented by an online shop. True to the motto "by practitioners – for practitioners," the founders and owners are predominantly practicing veterinarians.

Recap | Styrian Start-ups @Slush 2025

Slush in Helsinki is one of the world's leading technology and start-up events, and in 2025, it once again brought together over 10,000 international participants from the innovation and investor scene. At the initiative of the ICS, WKO Styria financed a free ticket for two Styrian start-ups to attend Slush. The goal was to provide innovative companies with access to international networking and new market impulses.

Company Visit to Pink GmbH

In early February, the DiGEM project team visited Pink GmbH at its company headquarters in Langenwang to get to know the Styrian company better and to present the new Emerging Markets funding program. The Styrian family-owned company is one of the leading companies in energy and storage technology, and has been developing and producing systems, system technology, and innovative energy concepts for solutions in this area for over 30 years (founded in 1989). The product portfolio ranges from hot water and buffer storage tanks, solar and control technology, to thermally driven cooling systems, as well as engineering services for local and district heating systems.

Styria × Latvia: Diplomacy in economic exchange!

At the beginning of February, we had the pleasure of welcoming Inga Ulmane, Economic and Trade Counsellor at the Embassy of the Republic of Latvia in Austria, to the Styrian Chamber of Commerce. Together with President Josef Herk, Honorary Consul Dr. Prof. Peter Grieshofer, ICS Managing Director Karl Hartleb, and Sandra Tanos, we held a stimulating and highly valuable exchange with the Embassy Counsellor.

Concrete US Market Entry: Insights & B2B Discussions at USA Day 2026

How can one successfully enter the US market – especially in economically challenging times? Approximately 150 Styrian entrepreneurs took the opportunity at USA Day: Smart Investment Strategies to explore precisely this question. USA Day, organized by the ICS Internationalization Center Styria in cooperation with the U.S. Commercial Service of the U.S. Embassy in Vienna, offered concise guidance, top-tier expertise, and, above all, concrete implementation approaches for entering the United States. A particular highlight was the visit of U.S. Ambassador Arthur Fisher to the heart of Styria, at the invitation of the ICS, where he provided insights into current economic policy developments and the significance of transatlantic economic relations.

Impulse Talks 2026: Growth, Exports & Location in Dialogue

Entrepreneurs are currently under immense pressure: volatile markets, rising demands, a shortage of skilled workers, and international uncertainties require daily decisions with far-reaching consequences. Commitment to performance, personal responsibility, and entrepreneurial thinking are central prerequisites for enabling growth and securing the business location in the long term. This is exactly where the Styria-wide Impulse Talks of WKO Styria come in. As part of the WKO Impulse Day, they offer companies a platform for information, exchange, and contextualization: regionally anchored and with a clear focus on the future.

That was the AI Summit Export 2026!

How can artificial intelligence be used strategically for international market entry – and where are its limits? This key question drew around 80 Styrian exporters to the AI Summit Export at WKO Styria on January 21, 2026. The ICS deliberately focused on practical, hands-on input: not a theoretical vision of the future, but concrete tools, workflows, and methods that can be implemented directly in day-to-day business.

Road to Expo2027 Belgrade

EXPO 2027 Belgrade brings Serbia and the entire Western Balkans into the international spotlight, opening up new economic perspectives for Austria. As an important partner in the region, Austria particularly benefits from strengthened bilateral relations, new investment impulses, and increased visibility of Austrian expertise in innovation, infrastructure, and sustainability.

Export balance for Styria in the first half of 2025

Styria's export economy recorded a decline of 2.8% to EUR 14.1 billion in the first half of 2025. This represents a slight improvement compared to last year's decline of 5.1%. In the nationwide comparison, our federal state ranks 4th and is also in line with the Austrian average.

Born Global Champions

Apply for the Born Global Champion Award 2026! The award specifically spotlights young, internationally oriented companies that have thought globally from the outset and can already demonstrate initial international successes today.<br /> <br /> The award deliberately targets a different audience than the Styrian Export Award: the focus is on startups and scale-ups that are opening up international markets with scalable technologies, innovative business models, and high growth potential. For the 12th time, companies will be honored for demonstrating how innovative power "Made in Austria" makes an impact worldwide.

The Top 65 Retail Chains in Italy

The Italian food retail sector is one of the country's most important economic branches. With an annual turnover of EUR 135.1 billion and a gross value added of EUR 208 billion, organized retail is a central driver of the Italian economy.<br /> ADVANTAGE AUSTRIA in Italy has published a comprehensive market study on this topic (4th, revised edition).

We wish you happy holidays!

For the coming year, much is already in the pipeline for Styria's export economy – a look at our calendar is worthwhile. And of course, we remain true to our motto "From Styria, Across the World We Go". This very spirit is also embodied in our ICS Christmas song, produced especially for you.

Diplomacy Meets Business: Embassy Visit from Finland

At the beginning of December, we had the pleasure of welcoming H.E. Nina Vaskunlahti, Ambassador of the Republic of Finland to Austria, to the Styrian Chamber of Commerce (WKO Steiermark). Together with Executive Director Karl-Heinz Dernoscheg and the representatives of the Internationalisation Center Styria (ICS), Daniela Guss and Sandra Tanos, we took the opportunity for an engaging and insightful exchange with the Ambassador.

Styrian EXPORT AWARD 2026 – Apply now!

In 2026, we also want to highlight the outstanding achievements of our local exporters and honor them with the Styrian EXPORT AWARDS in the three categories: Small Enterprises, Medium-sized Enterprises, and Large Enterprises.

Strong impetus for Chinese-Styrian economic cooperation

Last Friday, November 28, 2025, the ICS had the pleasure of welcoming a high-ranking delegation from the Association of Chinese Enterprises in Austria (VCUOE) to Graz. The delegation included representatives from leading industrial and technology sectors, among them Bank of China, ICBC, CCPIT, ZTE, HUAWEI, CRRC, PIA Automation China, as well as other company representatives from key industries.

Review | Business Delegate Consultation Day Northern, Western and Southern Europe @Graz

The visit of the Austrian business delegates to Graz began with an intensive and informative kick-off. As part of a meet-up, a total of nine Styrian COMET research centers introduced themselves to our eleven business delegates from Northern, Western and Southern Europe in the morning—following opening remarks by Provincial Councillor Willibald Ehrenhöfer. The aim of the meeting was to promote and deepen dialogue and to further expand international networking.

UN Procurement Forum: New Opportunities for Austrian Companies

Answers to these questions were provided at the two-day Multi-Country Procurement Seminar at the UN Headquarters in Geneva, where our colleague Ahlgriem Siess represented the ICS alongside a strong Austrian delegation. Two intensive days at the UN Headquarters in Geneva immersed Austrian companies in the global procurement world of the United Nations.

Event Review: Law & Finance India

India is one of the world's most dynamic growth markets, and the interest of Styrian companies is increasing. At the ICS format "Law & Finance in India," organized by our ICS India Project Manager, Mag. Christina Ulrich, it became clear: "Interest in India has definitely arrived in the SME sector! We are receiving more and more inquiries from all areas." With over 40 participants, the ICS event was once again filled to capacity. To begin, Dr. Shivam Subhash from CMS Reich-Rohrwig Hainz Rechtsanwälte provided practical insights into the legal framework for market entry: from company structures and partner due diligence to tax specifics. Subsequently, Himanshu Singh, ICICI Country Head Germany, outlined India's economic development and illuminated the "Roadmap to a Developed Economy by 2047."

Follow-up Report: Lifecycle Assessment in Brief

How can companies identify their biggest levers for sustainability and focus specifically on what truly matters? That was the central topic of the webinar "Lifecycle Assessment in Brief: How Companies Identify Their Most Effective Levers," held on November 11, 2025, as part of the REUSE2030 project.

Ghana Meets Styria

In early November, we had the pleasure of welcoming H.E. Matilda Aku Alomatu Ose-Agyeman, Ambassador of the Republic of Ghana to Austria, at the ICS in Graz. Together with our Managing Director Karl Hartleb, Chamber Director Karl-Heinz Dernoscheg, Markus Maierhofer (FIMA Industries GmbH) and the ICS experts Lisa-Maria Katholnig, Abigail Garcia and Sandra Tanos, an intensive and highly insightful exchange took place with the Ambassador.

EMERGING INSIGHTS

Globally, markets and power dynamics are changing rapidly. While established economic regions face pressure, emerging regions are gaining increasing importance – with young, dynamic populations, growing innovative strength, and enormous expansion potential.

Embassy Visit from the Republic of Moldova

At the end of October, we had the pleasure of warmly welcoming H.E. Victoria Rosa, Ambassador of the Republic of Moldova to Austria, in Graz. Together with Director Karl-Heinz Dernoscheg and representatives of the Internationalisation Center Styria (ICS), Daniela Guss and Sandra Tanos, we held a highly stimulating and informative exchange. The focus was on insights into Styria’s foreign trade, the activities of the Styrian Chamber of Commerce (WKO Steiermark) and the ICS, as well as discussions on economic developments, opportunities for cooperation, and perspectives for further deepening bilateral relations between Styria and the Republic of Moldova.

Start-up power made in Styria @ICS

In mid-October, the ICS had the pleasure of welcoming a dedicated group of founders as well as representatives from the Unicorn Start-up & Innovation Hub and the University of Graz's Center for Entrepreneurship. Our Managing Director, Karl Hartleb, opened the meeting with an introduction to the ICS and provided fascinating insights into the current state of the Styrian foreign trade economy, ranging from diverse international opportunities to the challenges companies currently face in global markets.

Karl Hartleb & Daniela Guß on the Geniestreich Podcast: How to Succeed in Export

28.3 billion euros: This is how much Styria generated from exports in 2024. Thus, every second euro in the Green Mark is generated through foreign trade. However, this was not always the case. The breakthrough came with the establishment of the Internationalization Center Styria (ICS).

Brazil: A Growth Market – Opportunities in the Water and Wastewater Sector

Brazil is currently undertaking a large-scale modernization of its water and wastewater infrastructure – a dynamic future market with high investment volumes and significant potential for Austrian technology providers. Within the framework of national expansion plans, diverse business opportunities are emerging for companies that wish to contribute with innovative solutions for increasing efficiency and sustainable development.

Graubünden Trade Association from Switzerland Visits ICS

The Graubünden Trade Association (BGV), the largest business association in the Swiss canton of Graubünden with almost 7,000 members, visited ICS at the end of September. With 63 sections, including numerous professional associations as well as local trade and business associations, the BGV is an important voice for Switzerland’s SME landscape. The visit focused on an in-depth exchange on the topics of green tech, innovation, and internationalisation.

Security & Defense | Future Market with Potential for Styrian Companies

The topics of Security & Defense are increasingly coming into focus in an ever more complex geopolitical situation. While new key technologies are continuously being developed specifically for this sector, dual-use technologies – i.e., solutions originally designed for the civilian sector – are also gaining increasing importance for security and defense-related applications.

Visit by future Austrian Deputy Commercial Counsellors @ICS

After successfully completing their trainee programme for their upcoming assignments around the globe, six future Deputy Commercial Counsellors from AUSSENWIRTSCHAFT AUSTRIA stopped by ICS in Graz at the end of September.<br /> <br /> The day began with an exclusive conversation with our Managing Director, Karl Hartleb. He not only provided insights into the wide range of ICS activities and services, but also shared his many years of experience as a former Commercial Counsellor. In addition, he spoke about the current economic situation and the most important developments in Styria.

Event recap | Skilled workers from Indonesia

On September 26, 2025, the event "Skilled workers from Indonesia" took place in the Europa Hall of the Styrian Chamber of Commerce (WKO Steiermark). The aim of the event was to present Styrian companies with innovative approaches to international skilled labour recruitment and to enable direct exchange with a high-level delegation of Indonesian recruiting agencies. Moderated by Ioana Mihoc, ICS Managing Director Karl Hartleb opened the event with a welcome address in which he highlighted the importance of sustainable and strategic skilled labour partnerships. Arief Bramono then welcomed the participants and underscored the opportunities that Indonesia’s young and dynamic population offers for the Austrian economy.

New ICS Project DiGEM: Substantial Funding Budget for Styrian Companies!

On September 1, 2025, we began implementing the new Digital Gateway Emerging Markets project (DiGEM for short). With a total funding budget of more than €1.2 million – co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) – Styrian companies now have access to a unique support program, initially running until August 2027, to help them leverage the diversification potential of emerging markets and successfully expand into them!

Recap: REUSE2030 Workshop Rethink. Reuse. Revolution.

This guiding question was at the heart of the REUSE2030 workshop "Rethink. Reuse. Revolution.", held at the end of September as part of the International Forum Mechatronics 2025 in Graz. Together with the participants, Leonarda Bregovic and Ioana Mihoc discussed opportunities, challenges, and concrete pathways for turning a circular economy into reality. The event focused on the transformation from linear value chains to a closed-loop system. In their keynotes, Zoltan Toronyi and Thomas Deutsch impressively demonstrated that sustainable solutions are not merely theoretical visions of the future, but are already being implemented step by step in practice.

20 Years of ICS – Pitching & Mentoring Junior Companies

The Internationalisation Center Styria (ICS) dedicated the morning of September 18, 2025 entirely to up-and-coming exporters & thus to our youngest Styrian entrepreneurs: On the occasion of the ICS's 20th anniversary, three Junior Companies presented their innovative business ideas at the Pitching & Mentoring Event. The Junior Company initiative enables students between the ages of 15 and 19 to found real companies for a school year and go through all phases of a business process – from the idea through product development to sales.

Kleine Zeitung Business Talk at ICS Graz

The 2025 Styrian Export Award winners have been announced!

20 Years of ICS – A Driving Force Behind Styria’s Export Success

Japan Follow-up

tigerpath.eu – One-stop shop for eHealth innovations launched in the Alpine region!

Historical High: Styria Reaches an R&D Quota of 5.31 Percent

2024 Export Balance: Styria Remains at the Forefront

Funding for Corporate Certifications within the Framework of Ideen!Reich XS

Post-Event Report: WKO Sustainability Day

News from Japan | Styrian Economic Mission

Post-Event Report | India Forum – Market Entry in Practice

Post-event Report | CFO Club Styria – Business Breakfast

Recap | Diplomatic Meetings – ASEAN Ambassadors for Working Discussions @ WKO Styria

Review | This was the AI Update for Export

Review | This was our Overseas Business Delegate Consultation Day in Graz

Recap | ICS at the Junior Companies State Competition

Recap | RYCO Delegation Western Balkans

Fully booked and full of value: “Fit in Customs Law 2025” impressed with expertise and charm

Follow-up Report | Incoming Delegation from Sweden & Finland

Post-event Report | Export-Academy REUSE2030

Post-event Report | International Project Development Symposium

Event recap | USA – Identifying opportunities & mastering challenges

Recap | Attracting Skilled Workers from the Philippines

Recap | ICS @ Founders’ Fair 2025

Recap: Successfully Participating in UN Tenders

News from INDIA | Automotive Trade Mission to Chennai, Pune & New Delhi

Practical Insights for Innovation and Growth

US WATCH

Students – tomorrow’s exporters @ ICS!

Start-up Idea Competition Sharing Kit – #yourideasmatter

Information Day for Interns

Styrian EXPORT AWARD 2025 – Submission deadline has passed!

Top 5 – 2025 | Event Highlights in H1 2025

Event recap: Deep Dive – AI in Export

Recap: USA Consultation Day at ICS

Review | Austria @Web Summit Lisbon 2024

Post-event report: Styria on Tour – globally successful with Neuroth & Messner

The winners of the 2024 Styrian Export Award have been announced!

The Styrian EXPORT DAY 2024

Recap: Startup Salon | How to enter Japan

Event recap | B2B meetings @ European Robotics and Automation Talks 2024

Follow-up Report | Meeting of the Japanese-Austrian Committee

Event Recap: Cooperation Talks Beyond Borders & Deep Talk @ Zukunftstag

Follow-up Report: Serbia/Montenegro Delegation

Event recap: Kick-off meeting of the international EU project TIGER

Hotel New Build and Renovation Projects Italy 2024

Post-event Report: Argentine Timber Construction Delegation Visits Styria

Post-Event Report: SkillUpClass Internationalization | Long Night of the JW

REUSE2030: Sustainable Innovation in Mechanical Engineering

Top events from leading international universities

REUSE2030 – REshaping Central Europe IndUstry Sustainability through circular Economy models by 2030

Around the World: Our Top 10+1 International Events After the Summer Break

Review | Our Trade Commissioner Consultation Day in Graz

Students – the Exporters of Tomorrow @ ICS!

Post-Event Report: Interesting 2024 Utopia Symposium by Green Tech Valley

Congratulations to the Styrian award winners!

Review | Deep Dive: Making Generative AI Easy to Use

Post-Event Report: Austrian Life Science Day 2024

Review: International Pitch Training

Event Report: Strategy & Networking Meeting INDIA

Follow-Up Report: Export Academy Customs Law

News from LONDON | DESIRE Business Trip UK

INSIGHT INDIA

Post-event Report: Health Tech Hub Styria 2024

Recap: The second USA Consultation Day

Company Visit: OFNER der Backprofi

Recap | Start-up Salon x Unicorn

Easter Customs Worldwide

Review | Ride into the future – Styria to the Southeast USA

Review: ICS @ Founders’ Fair 2024

Post-event Report | International Innovation Scouts @ Graz

News from INDIA | Business Mission to Bengaluru & New Delhi

Post-Event Report | Embassy Visit Bosnia & Herzegovina

Post-Event Report | B2B Event: Digital Western Balkans

Embassy Visit Ghana

Company Visits Weiz & Gleisdorf

Recap | Webinar: Dynamic IT Landscape Western Balkans

ICS event highlights in the first half of 2024

Recap: ChatGPT & Co – Use Case Export

Review: Intercultural Training India

Young early-career researchers visit @ WKO

Area Süd: Company Visits & Networking Meetings

Economic Impact | Ukraine–Russia War

Post-event Report | ICS at the Styria-Slovenia Joint Committee in Celje

Positive export balance for Styria in the first half of 2023

Styrian EXPORT AWARD 2024 – Submission deadline extended to March 11!