Tampere woos Indian firms

The Tampere region of Finland, which has companies that command a global market share of 30 per cent, can offer immense outsourcing opportunities to Indian firms, said Vesa Kaasalainen, director, International Business Office, Tampere.

The region houses companies involved in mechanical engineering, information and communication technology (ICT).

Kaasalainen said Tampere is the world's most friendly, free and collaborative region for business.Indian businesses in mechanical engineering and quality manufacturing can certainly take advantage of opportunities in design, research and component production.

The engineering companies' include John Deere, Kone Cargotech and SandvikTamrock. These companies have a very high global market share.

Indian players can also seek partnership in health and bio-tech and R&D.

"In a country where 3.4 per cent of the gross domestic produce (GDP) is invested in research and development, Indian scientists and research organisations have a great business opportunity," he said citing the example of Nokia which employes nearly 10,000 people in R&D activity.

He said setting up a business in Finland is extremely easy as the county is corruption free. Also, the region has a good climate and excellent infrastructure.

He said the International Business Office of Tampere provides free assistance to select location for starting business and establishing a business.

The Finninsh administration works closely with the Asia Business Office to attract investors. He also informed that a Finninsh Business Centre may open in Pune.