Rudolf A. Thaler, commercial counselor at the Austrian Trade Office in Warsaw, talks to Ewa Hancock.

Here in Poland, the common opinion is that foreign investments are decreasing. Do you share this view, especially concerning Austrian investments?

According to official investment statistics, there is a decline of approximately $500 million between midyear 2001 and 2002. But that doesn't mean that Austrian companies are running away-on the contrary. This rather negative picture is because of a change in the evaluation criteria. The fact is that Austrian companies have up to now invested approximately $1.3 billion in sectors like banking, insurance, construction, building materials, lumber and packaging. Due to a change in the evaluation criteria, certain investments are not considered as Austrian anymore.

In the last few weeks, I have had many meetings with Austrian companies and I especially see a growing interest in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) when doing business with Poland. In the long run, this will also have a positive impact in investment activities. The investment figures also do not consider investments below $1 million. Usually, SMEs start below this figure and expand according to market prospects.

How can Poland make itself more attractive to Austrian investors?

Poland is already a very important partner for Austrian companies and the most attractive area in the region. Of course, PR activities abroad are very important. A good example is the very successful Polish Year in Austria. But the most important and efficient way to attract investors is the constant improvement of an entrepreneur-friendly environment. Satisfied companies are finally the best ambassadors abroad.

Will European Union accession help with this situation?

I am convinced that EU accession will have an additional positive impact on the investment activities of foreign and, of course, Austrian companies in Poland.