Volkswagenâs Pötsch re-elected to lead German-Austrian trade ties for three more years
Hans Dieter Pötsch, Volkswagen's Supervisory Board Chairman, was re-elected president of the German Chamber of Commerce in Austria (GCCA) for another three-year term at the 70th General Assembly held at Palais Ferstel in Vienna. The event, hosted by Kathrin Gulnerits, editor-in-chief of our website magazine, saw the election of Annette Mann (Austrian Airlines) and Joachim Schönbeck (Andritz AG) as new presidents, with Christian Jauk assuming the role of first vice president.
Pötsch, in his address, emphasized the importance of trust, stability, and market-based responsibility in German-Austrian economic relations, given that Germany remains Austria's most important trading partner, with over 30% of Austrian goods exports heading to Germany. He also called for less bureaucracy, increased investment in research and skilled labor, and stronger EU cooperation to maintain Europe's industrial strength, citing challenges such as geopolitical tensions, fragile supply chains, and the transition to a climate-neutral economy. Pötsch noted that the energy transition presents an opportunity for innovation in mechanical engineering, mobility, and environmental technology.
The re-election of Pötsch and the addition of Mann, Schönbeck, and Jauk to the GCCA presidency signals a commitment to strengthening German-Austrian economic ties and navigating the complex challenges facing European industries. The assembly at Palais Ferstel marked a significant step in shaping the future of these relations.
