The Austrian Chamber of Labour and the PRO-GE trade union have presented a study by the Johannes Kepler University Linz on the Austrian railway industry. The study examines the economic impact of the railway expansion offensive based on the Ministry of Infrastructure's "Target Network 2040". Over a period of 16 years, added value of €20.7 to 24.4 billion is expected, with the creation of 12,200 to 14,400 jobs per year. The study sees Austria as a leader in track-laying machines, electromechanical drives and sensor technology. Europe still has an advantage over China, which is to be protected by European Union (EU) regulations against subsidised Chinese suppliers. The Chamber of Labour criticises the financial situation for railway projects, as debt brakes and Maastricht criteria are hindering investment. Exceptions to fiscal rules are being called for. Despite a good order situation and profits, high inflation, the need for skilled workers and competition from China are challenges for the future.
