DG: STATE OF BUSINESS
[BIZ: Eupen, July 20] As far as the labor market was concerned, businesses praised the flexibility and sense of responsibility of local employees and their solid professional foundation and multilingual ability. The management too was praised in the DG. On the other side, there was concern at the SME level about a shortage of skilled labor and the relatively small labor market. In order to get the right staff, many companies had to look outside the DG; and, even though the multilingual capacities were regarded as among the strengths of the current working population, many employers thought that this was not so strong among the younger generation. In the context of training for SMEs, there was praise for the general training. As far as management is concerned in the Walloon region, there was concern about long waiting times and an indecisiveness in respect of decisions. There was often criticism about problems with the power supply in the Eupen region.
The Minister responsible for Business in Belgium’s German-speaking Region (DG), Bernd Gentges has, in recent months, examined the economic development in the area, looking at 27 different businesses between November 2006 and 2007. Talks were held with management and with leading employees. There was praise on the part of business for the German-speaking community as a location for business. This related particularly to the logistical infrastructure and its central location in Europe, to the strong presence of the service section. It was also seen as a secure location for the future. Consequently, a whole range of companies are planning expansion and investment.
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