Europe Takes Center Stage at the 35th Tyrolean Economic Forum 2026

High-profile speakers discuss Europe's international competitiveness, technological developments, and geopolitical challenges at Congress Innsbruck

For the 35th time, the Federation of Austrian Industries in Tyrol (Industriellenvereinigung Tirol) hosted the Tyrolean Economic Forum at Congress Innsbruck. Under the theme “EUROPA QUO VADIS? How Europe Can Regain Its Competitive Edge on the Global Stage,” the event once again brought together prominent business leaders, decision-makers, and representatives from business, politics, and society for a day of discussion, networking, and exchange on Europe's future.

Following the official welcome addresses by Max Kloger, President of the Federation of Austrian Industries in Tyrol, and Anton Mattle, Governor of Tyrol, financial and stock market expert Monika Rosen moderated the afternoon's program.

The diverse program covered a wide range of topics, from innovative start-up presentations and successful business strategies to industrial artificial intelligence, international trade relations, security policy, and geopolitical challenges. Internationally renowned speakers offered valuable insights and fresh perspectives:

• Andreas Klauser, CEO of PALFINGER AG, on successful strategies for a global company in volatile times
• Angie Gifford, former executive at Meta, Microsoft, and HP, on the opportunities industrial artificial intelligence presents for Europe
• Jörg Wuttke, Partner at Albright Stonebridge Group and former longtime President of the European Union Chamber of Commerce in China, on the complex relationship between partnership and rivalry between China and Europe
• Andreas Schwer, CEO of Electro Optic Systems and former Executive Board Member of Rheinmetall Defence AG, on Europe's defense capabilities in the era of modern drone technology
• Kai Diekmann, journalist, entrepreneur, and former Editor-in-Chief and Publisher of BILD, on political power, communication, and the growing support for fringe political parties
• Karim El-Gawhary, longtime ORF Middle East correspondent, journalist, and author, on geopolitical developments in the Middle East and Europe's role as a global player

The forum focused on Europe's current challenges and future prospects at the intersection of business, technology, security, and international cooperation. Particular attention was given to how Europe can strengthen its competitiveness, harness technological potential, and actively shape its role on the global stage.

The event concluded with a culinary evening, providing an opportunity for in-depth conversations, new connections, and informal networking.

The Tyrolean Economic Forum was organized by the Federation of Austrian Industries in Tyrol in cooperation with Raiffeisen Landesbank Tirol, BMW Unterberger, Holzbau Saurer, GrECo International, the Tyrol Chamber of Commerce, business bestseller, and MCI | The Entrepreneurial School®.