Image: Colourbox
Austria’s economic output was 447 billion euros in 2022. With optimally developed infrastructure, it could be a fifth higher, as a model calculation from the Austrian Infrastructure Report 2024 shows, which was presented yesterday at the location and infrastructure symposium. This primarily means the expansion of broadband internet and 5G, from which rural areas in particular would benefit.
Of the approximately 94 billion euros in productivity potential, 85 billion euros could be raised by expanding digital connections, the expert committee of the Future Business Austria initiative has calculated. Four fifths of the managers surveyed say that the goal must be comprehensive broadband coverage by 2030. Three quarters expect that the expansion conditions for 5G would be made easier.
Baltic states model
According to IT expert Thomas Plückebaum, there is no way around expanding fiber optic lines. The Baltic states are a role model. Digitization State Secretary Florian Tursky sees it similarly: “Mobile does not replace a stationary connection.”
Business operators expect the positive effects to be an increase in the attractiveness of rural areas, a boost to home offices and new training opportunities and careers. The rural exodus could be counteracted and companies could be located. The shortage of skilled workers remains an issue: More than half of those surveyed stated that they lack IT specialists.
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