Overview
Capital: Vienna
Official EU language(s): German
EU member country: since 1 January 1995
Currency: euro. Euro area member since 1 January 1999
Schengen: Schengen area member since 1 December 1997
Figures: Geographical size – population – gross domestic product (GDP) per capita in PPS
Political system
Austria is structured as a federal parliamentary republic, where governance is divided between a chancellor, who leads the government, and a president, who acts as the head of state. The country is made up of nine federal states (Bundesländer), with both state and national authorities sharing executive responsibilities. The Austrian Parliament consists of two chambers: the National Council (Nationalrat), elected through direct public vote, and the Federal Council (Bundesrat), which represents the interests of regional parliaments.
Trade and economy
In 2020, Austria’s economic landscape was dominated by key industries, with manufacturing and industrial production contributing 21.4%, while commerce, transport, hospitality, and food services accounted for 20.4%. Public services, including administration, defense, education, healthcare, and social work, made up 18.6% of the economy. Germany stood as Austria’s primary export destination within the EU, receiving 30% of its exports, followed by Italy (6%) and France (4%). Beyond the EU, the United States and Switzerland were Austria’s main non-EU trading partners, receiving 6% and 5% of its exports, respectively. On the import side, Germany led with 41%, followed by Italy (6%) and the Netherlands and Czechia (4% each). Non-EU imports were mainly sourced from Switzerland (5%) and China (4%).
Austria in the EU
European Parliament
Austria is represented by 18 members in the European Parliament.
European Parliament office in Austria
Council of the EU
In the Council of the EU, Austrian government representatives participate in meetings to adopt EU laws and coordinate policies, depending on the policy area being addressed.
Presidency of the Council of the EU
Austria has held the rotating Presidency of the Council of the EU in Jul-Dec 1998, Jan-Jun 2006, and July-Dec 2018.
European Commission
Johannes Hahn, responsible for Budget and Administration, is Austria’s nominated Commissioner to the European Commission. The Commission maintains a representation in Austria.
European Economic & Social Committee
Austria has 12 representatives on the European Economic and Social Committee, providing consultation on proposed laws affecting work and social situations.
European Committee of the Regions
Austria has 12 representatives on the European Committee of the Regions, ensuring regional perspectives are considered in proposed laws.
Permanent representation to the EU
Austria communicates with EU institutions through its permanent representation in Brussels, ensuring its interests and policies are effectively pursued.
Budgets and Funding
EU-funded projects in Austria receive funding from the country’s contributions to the EU budget, supporting various initiatives across EU countries.
