Industry and exports drive Pirkanmaa's economic turnaround as corporate turnover rises 6.3%

According to Tamperelainen, a regional economic review compiled by the Tampere Chamber of Commerce shows Pirkanmaa’s combined corporate turnover rose 6.3% in January–June, accelerating from 5.2% in the first quarter to 7.5% in the second quarter.

Exports led the gains: industrial export turnover jumped 15.1% year-on-year in April–June, contributing to an 11.4% rise in overall industrial turnover. Technology industry sales were up 11.1% in January–June and surged 14.4% in April–June.

Construction turnover rose 7.7% and retail sales grew 3.9%. Business services, transport and warehousing, and accommodation and food all posted gains, while information and communication expanded more modestly.

Markus Sjölund, director of the Tampere Chamber, said the second-quarter figures underline a clear turnaround after a slow start last year, with industry and exports showing particularly welcome acceleration.

Acting regional director Matti Lipsanen credited investments in skills and high-level research, development and innovation. He said demand remains strong for Pirkanmaa’s expertise in smart machinery, defence and digital industry.

The review was produced by the Regional Council of Pirkanmaa, Business Tampere Ltd and the Tampere Chamber of Commerce, using Statistics Finland cyclical service data. The findings follow earlier regional reporting that highlighted rising export activity earlier export growth and an SME barometer showing improved business optimism in the region growing SME optimism.