Austrian industry group warns climate law could raise costs

Austria’s planned climate law could impose additional costs on industry and put Salzburg companies at a disadvantage, the Salzburg branch of the Federation of Austrian Industries said in a statement reported by ORF.

The federal government is targeting climate neutrality by 2040. The industry group is calling for Austria’s climate pathway to remain aligned with the European single market and is warning against exceeding European requirements.

Andreas Wimmer, the association’s new Salzburg president, said stricter national rules could place a disproportionate burden on Austria’s industrial base. Export-oriented companies compete directly with businesses in Germany, Italy and other European Union countries, he said.

Higher production costs or additional charges could influence investment decisions and put value creation and jobs in Salzburg under pressure, according to the association.

Peter Wimmer, president of the Salzburg branch, said industry supported the European goal of cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 90 percent by 2040. However, he said the remaining 10 percent reduction should have until 2050, in line with European requirements.

According to the association, different Austrian deadlines would distort competition to the disadvantage of domestic companies.