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Skeleton Technologies chooses France for €600 million investment

Skeleton Technologies chooses France for €600 million investment

Taavi Madiberk meets Emmanuel Macron in Paris.
Source : Skeleton Technologies

Skeleton Technologies expands into France with an investment of 600 million euros.

Paris, France – On May 14, 2024, at an economic summit chaired by Emmanuel Macron, Skeleton Technologies, an Estonian developer and manufacturer of energy storage solutions, announced a major expansion in France. The company plans to invest 600 million euros in research and development (R&D) and super battery production over the next five years.

In 2024, Skeleton will begin research and development of next-generation battery technologies in Toulouse, the Rose City in southwest France. Mass production of these super batteries is scheduled for 2027.
Founded in Tartu in 2009, Skeleton Technologies opened its first factory near Dresden in Germany seven years ago, and is currently building a supercapacitor factory in Leipzig. Its headquarters and engineering center in Tallinn employ over 130 people. This Estonian company is definitely oriented towards the great industrial powers of France and Germany.

A significant achievement for Estonian industry:
“We are the first Estonian industrial company to expand into Europe’s two leading industrial countries: Germany and France. This is an important achievement for us, and will also pave the way for other Estonian green technology companies,” said Taavi Madiberk, CEO and co-founder of Skeleton Technologies.
Madiberk pointed out that several countries had been considered for the new R&D center and factory.
However, France’s efforts to revive its industry with green technologies were decisive.
” The interest of the French in our activities has been remarkable, and our Estonian origin is perceived as an asset ,” he added.
Incidentally, in October 2023, France enacted the Green Industry Act, which was drawn up in consultation with civil society and elected representatives, and then passed by parliament.
This law aims to accelerate the country’s reindustrialization and make France the leader in green industry in Europe.
A perfect application of this law can be seen in the case of Skeleton.
Toulouse: a strategic choice
“We chose Toulouse for our R&D center because we are close to our customers and benefit from a world-class workforce and research institutions,” explained Madiberk. Occitanie, home to aerospace giants such as Airbus and Thales, as well as the University of Toulouse, a renowned materials science research center, proved to be an ideal location.
Enthusiastic reception in France
Bruno Le Maire, French Minister for the Economy, Finance, Industrial and Digital Sovereignty, comments: “Seven years ago, the battery industry in France and Europe did not exist. This investment decision, made possible by the green industry tax credit, validates our strategy of reindustrialization in the service of the French people and the climate.”

Carole Delga, President of the Occitanie region, welcomed the expansion. “The arrival of Skeleton Technologies is excellent news for the Occitanie region. We were competing with several European countries and other French regions. Skeleton’s decision shows that the region has become a magnet for green technologies,” said Delga.
She added that efforts to develop a favorable ecosystem for companies in this sector had paid off.

A green reindustrialization strategy
Skeleton Technologies is recognized as one of the Global Cleantech 100 companies, a leader in high-power energy storage. Employing over 300 people, it is present in Estonia, Germany and Finland.
Laurent Saint-Martin, Director General of Business France, emphasized that this project is emblematic of France’s strategy to win back green industry. ” Business France worked with Skeleton for four years to convince them to choose France, which was a decisive factor in their decision,” he added.

This expansion marks an important step in the development of the green technology industry in France, attracting innovative companies and strengthening R&D capabilities in the renewable energies sector.

France is an attractive destination for Estonian companies:
Skeleton is not the only company to invest in France. Bolt, Europe’s leading mobility platform, announced on May 13, 2024 an investment of over 100 million euros in France over the next five years. This strategic commitment aims to promote responsible mobility solutions and strengthen its presence on the French market, where it is already a major player with operations in over 30 cities and a network of over 50,000 partner drivers.

Bolt’s investment will focus on three areas: the creation of a Chauffeur Hub in Saint-Ouen, driver training via the Bolt Academy, and the acquisition of low-emission vehicles.
The hub will serve as a support center for 25,000 drivers a year, the Academy will focus on diversity and inclusion, and a large part of the funds will be dedicated to hybrid and electric vehicles.

If you’re also interested in investing in France, don’t hesitate to call on the services of the future France-International Chamber of Commerce in Estonia, which offers qualified contacts to help you with your business.

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Events

Join us for the grand finale of the second edition of the business competition for Ukrainian women in Estonia.

Join us for the grand finale of the second edition of the business competition for Ukrainian women in Estonia.

Through this competition, we honor the entrepreneurial spirit and innovative ideas of Ukrainian women, highlighting their talents and contributions to the Estonian business landscape.
Organized by the Club d’Affaires des Francophones en Estonie (CAdFE) and supported by renowned partners including the French Embassy in Estonia, the Ukrainian Embassy in Estonia, the Tallinn Migration Center, IOM, the NGO Lifeline and the NGO Hands for Ukraine, this event promises an evening filled with inspiration, networking opportunities and joyous celebration.

🤝 Special thanks to our generous sponsors, CoinsPaid, Cycoma, the Estonian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, IOM Estonia and the City of Tallinn.

Event details :

📅 Date: May 21

🕒 Time: 6:00 p.m.

🏛️ Venue: Estonian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Toom-Kooli 17, 10130 Tallinn)
Ticket information: 🎟️ Ticket price: €5 for CAdFE members, €10 for non-members : REGISTRATION LINK

🍽️ Ticket includes: access to the event, participation in the competition and a delicious buffet.

Program :
18:00: Doors open
18:10: Opening remarks by Violaine Champetier de Ribes, President of CAdFE
18:20: Musical performance by Olesja (Ukrainian singer)
18:30: Speeches by H.E. MIGNOT Emmanuel, French Ambassador to Estonia, and H.E. KONONENKO Maksym, Ukrainian Ambassador to Estonia.
18:45: Presentation of project ideas by the 5 finalists
19:15: Jury vote
19:30: Winner announced
20:00: Networking
21:00: End of the event
Jury members :
Helery Pops of Practica Capital Max Krupyshev (CEO of CoinsPaid)
Violaine Champetier de Ribes (CAdFE)
Evely Helenius (Silverspoon)
The audience (You!)
Why take part?
Attend presentations by the 5 finalists and vote for your favorite project.
Network with like-minded people and potential collaborators.
Celebrate the achievements of Ukrainian women entrepreneurs in Estonia.
Enjoy a delicious buffet while supporting a great cause.
This event is not only an opportunity to celebrate entrepreneurship, but also a chance to contribute to a meaningful cause.
We look forward to welcoming you to this extraordinary event!

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CCI France-Estonie is proudly affiliated to CCI France International, the worldwide network of French Chambers of Commerce and Industry.

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Accelerate your business thanks to the 1st private network of French companies in 94 countries: 119 chambers | 33,000 companies | 4,000 events | 300 committees | 1,200 exclusive advantages

Exclusively for members of the CCI Françaises à l’International, discover the CCIFI Connect app.

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Categories
Events

Petanque, a French tradition: join CAdFE for a family tournament

Petanque, a French tradition: join CAdFE for a family tournament

Ask any Frenchman if he’s ever played pétanque, even once in his life. The answer will be positive in 99% of cases. The emblematic sport of pétanque embodies an important part of French culture, both traditionally and popularly.

Petanque has its roots in the south of France in the early 20th century. It is said to have been invented by Provençal boules players looking for a way to play on rocky terrain.
The technique of throwing the balls feet together, known as “pieds tanqués”, is the origin of the name “pétanque”.
This game of boules, popularized by working-class people in their leisure time, eventually won over the hearts of the French and became a symbol of conviviality, relaxation and friendly competition.

Petanque’s popularity extends far beyond the confines of the playing field. It can be found in parks, village squares, on beaches and even in private gardens at family gatherings and summer barbecues.
The simplicity of the rules and the ease with which the boules can be transported make it a game accessible to all, regardless of age or skill level.
But pétanque is more than just a pastime.
It also has an important social dimension. Petanque games are often an opportunity for friends to get together and share a glass of pastis or a cup of coffee. It’s a real French ritual, a time to take the time to get together and enjoy the moment.
Petanque is also widely represented in popular culture. She is featured in numerous films, TV series, songs and works of art. It’s often used as a backdrop to illustrate the French art of living, with its shots of shady pétanque courts, players dressed in white and lively discussions under the midday sun.
What’s more, pétanque is a competitive sport in its own right, with national and international championships attracting players from all over the world.
Petanque champions are revered in France, and are much admired by the public.
In short, pétanque occupies a special place in French culture, both traditionally and popularly.
It embodies conviviality, relaxation, competition and the French art of living, making it much more than just a game of boules, but a true symbol of French identity.
So don’t wait:

  • 📅If you want to live the French way of life 2,000 km from France and experience the simplicity and conviviality of this game, join CAdFE for its family pétanque tournament on June 2 from 3pm-6pm near the TalTech sports center (Location and price to be announced).

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CCI France-Estonie is proudly affiliated to CCI France International, the worldwide network of French Chambers of Commerce and Industry.

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Copyright 2024 Chambre de Commerce et d’Industrie France Estonie

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CCI France-Estonie is proudly affiliated to CCI France International, the worldwide network of French Chambers of Commerce and Industry.

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Accelerate your business thanks to the 1st private network of French companies in 94 countries: 119 chambers | 33,000 companies | 4,000 events | 300 committees | 1,200 exclusive advantages

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Categories
Articles Conferences

Analysis of the FICE 2024 conference: Challenges and opportunities for foreign companies in Estonia

Analysis of the FICE 2024 conference: Challenges and opportunities for foreign companies in Estonia

On April 17, CAdFE representatives attended the FICE conference entitled “Do foreign companies want to stay in Estonia?”.
The conference focused on the findings of FICE’s executive survey, which is based on responses from a large number of foreign investors and FICE members. The survey aimed to provide an overview of investment trends in Estonia for the year 2023, including growth, salaries, as well as information on future investment projects and concerns regarding Estonia’s economic growth.

The FICE 2024 Executive Report highlights both the promise and the challenges facing the Estonian economy.
Based on information from business leaders, the report offers a comprehensive overview of current sentiments, revealing a mixture of optimism and apprehension.

Positive outlook :
Despite the uncertainties, a significant proportion of respondents (38%) anticipate economic expansion over the coming year. Encouragingly, 54% anticipate an increase in revenues over the same period, with the technology and IT sectors leading this growth in the coming years.
Upcoming challenges :
However, despite these optimistic projections, several obstacles threaten to hold back Estonia’s progress. Rising inflation has eroded companies’ competitiveness vis-à-vis major trading partners, affecting almost half of respondents (47%). Despite the significant challenges posed by rising labor costs and shortages, 28% plan to increase their workforce over the next 6 months.
Political uncertainty:
One of the most pressing problems highlighted by the survey was increased unpredictability in policy-making.
The lack of regulatory stability and dialogue between the public and private sectors has exacerbated uncertainty for businesses. Almost half of respondents (47.8%) expressed dissatisfaction with the Estonian government’s responsiveness to their concerns, particularly with regard to recent tax increases and corporate tax reforms.
Regional disparities and the education system :
Another critical challenge mentioned in the report isthe pronounced regional economic disparities within Estonia . While the capital region prospers, other regions lag behind, exacerbating socio-economic divisions.
In addition, insufficient investment in research and development (R&D) and shortcomings in the education system are also hampering Estonia’s growth potential.

Recommendations for growth :

Faced with these challenges, the survey puts forward a number of recommendations for decision-makers to foster sustainable economic growth:

– Strengthening vocational education: Focusing on vocational education and strengthening links between industries to effectively address skills shortages.

– Attracting skilled labor: Relax regulations and visa quotas to attract skilled labor, reduce labor shortages and promote innovation.

– Improved dialogue: Foster better dialogue between the public and private sectors to ensure responsive policy-making and regulatory stability.

– Increased R&D spending: Prioritize investment in R&D to stimulate innovation and the transition to higher value-added sectors, strengthening Estonia’s competitiveness on the world stage.

Conclusion:
While the Estonian economy shows resilience and growth potential, addressing the challenges highlighted in FICE’s executive report is crucial to long-term prosperity . By heeding these recommendations and fostering collaboration between stakeholders, Estonia can navigate through uncertainties and chart a course towards sustainable, inclusive economic development.

  1. First Panel: Do foreign companies want to stay in Estonia?

The conference was followed by a panel discussion, the first taking the title of the executive inquiry and examining the lessons to be learned.
Moderated by Kris Leinatamm, the panel featured perspectives from Tiit Riisalo, Minister of Economic Affairs and Information Technology; Sirli Männiksaar, Director of Ericsson Estonia and Chairman of the Board; Karsten Staehr, Professor of Macroeconomics at TalTech; and Dr. Scott Levy, CEO of BlueMount Capital (UK) Ltd.
Navigating economic challenges:
One of the main concerns raised at the panel was the challenge posed by high inflation rates, particularly in the manufacturing sector. Rising energy and electricity prices have led to uncertainty and depressed economic forecasts.
Karsten Staehr stressed the need for a sensible fiscal policy, arguing for a relatively flat tax system and progressive income taxation. He emphasized the untapped potential for redistribution and urged a careful balance between spending and taxation.
Communication and governance :
Dr. Scott Levy stressed the importance of effective communication between government and business. He stressed that companies focus on their business, not lobbying, and called for a pragmatic approach to politics.
Estonia’s accessible political landscape, characterized by a small public service, was highlighted as a positive aspect facilitating communication between policymakers and business.
Predictability and investment climate:
Sirli Männiksaar stressed the importance of predictability for companies operating in Estonia. Despite concerns, she highlighted the significant investment in research and development, with the aim of doubling the economy in the next ten years.
She emphasized the ease of doing business in Estonia, citing low bureaucracy and a favorable environment.
Attractiveness of Estonia :
Minister Riisalo challenged perceptions of economic stagnation, pointing to tangible growth and development in various sectors. He acknowledged the existing challenges, but remained optimistic about Estonia’s investment potential. Sirli Männiksaar echoed this sentiment, citing Ericsson’s substantial investment in research and development in Estonia and the country’s appeal for quality of life.
Bridging the skills gap:
Karsten Staehr stressed the need to close the skills gap in Estonia, advocating training programs and improvements to the education system. Dr. Scott Levy praised Estonia’s pool of educated, English-speaking young talent, positioning it as a competitive advantage over other countries. However, he also stressed the importance of bridging the gap between the education system and business needs through internships and practical training.

3. Chamber of the Year Award 2024

On this occasion, FICE presented the Chamber of the Year 2024 award on the basis of each chamber’s participation in the survey in proportion to its size.
Thanks to the unwavering commitment of its members, CAdFE was elected Chamber of the Year 2024, the fruit of a two-year commitment by its members and executive board! A significant award for the future French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Estonia.
Violaine Champetier de Ribes received the award from FICE President Peter Thomsen.
4. “What do foreign companies need to thrive in Estonia?”
The second panel discussion focused on the vital and provocative question: “What does it take for foreign companies to thrive in Estonia?” With a distinguished panel of speakers and informative exchanges, the session offered valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities shaping the Estonian business landscape.
The second panel, with speakers including Lenno Uusküla, chief economist at Luminor Estonia and associate professor of macroeconomics at the University of Tartu, David Clark, venture capital partner at Tera Ventures, and Edmund Smolarek, head of the Möhring Group and CEO of Balti Spoon OÜ, discussed “What foreign companies in Estonia need to thrive”, with Bart Cosijn, FICE secretary and founder of the Estonian Dialogue Academy, moderating the discussion.
Lenno Uusküla highlighted an urgent problem: the shortage of qualified personnel, insisting that among the various challenges, this aspect is often overlooked.

Edmund Smolarek echoed a sense of resilience, emphasizing the need to overcome obstacles.
He illustrated his point by referring to the difficulty of finding electricians despite employing 296 people, necessitating recruitment from other regions.

David Clark praised Estonia’s low bureaucracy and called for increased investment in both start-ups and manufacturing.

Mr. Smolarek stressed the importance of maintaining a balance between start-ups and manufacturing sectors.

However, Lenno Uusküla warned against complacency, noting that rising prices were prompting some to leave Estonia.
The discussion also highlighted the importance of manufacturing, with Edmund Smolarek pointing out that it contributes around 15% of Estonia’s GDP, with two-thirds of production destined for export.
What’s more, the manufacturing sector employs over 120,000 people!
The panelists collectively highlighted the importance of collaboration, sustainability and innovation in the success of foreign companies in Estonia, offering a multifaceted perspective on navigating the evolving business landscape.
Conclusion:
The FICE conference explored Estonia’s economic landscape, highlighting both opportunities and challenges. Insights from FICE’s executive survey report highlighted the need to address issues such as rising inflation, political uncertainty and regional disparities . Panel discussions also highlighted the importance of collaboration, innovation and bridging the skills gap for sustainable growth. Overall, the conference provided valuable information and strategies for navigating Estonia’s evolving business environment. On this occasion, it should be noted that CAdFE was awarded the prestigious prize for Best Chamber of the Year. If you’d like to work with Estonia’s leading foreign chamber of commerce, join us! Discover the activities and opportunities offered by CAdFE, Estonia’s recognized beacon of excellence in the development of international business relations.

Florent Angibaud – Communications intern at CAdFE

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Copyright 2024 Chambre de Commerce et d’Industrie France Estonie

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CCI France-Estonie is proudly affiliated to CCI France International, the worldwide network of French Chambers of Commerce and Industry.

Download the CCIFI Connect application

Accelerate your business thanks to the 1st private network of French companies in 94 countries: 119 chambers | 33,000 companies | 4,000 events | 300 committees | 1,200 exclusive advantages

Exclusively for members of the CCI Françaises à l’International, discover the CCIFI Connect app.

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Copyright 2024 Chambre de Commerce et d’Industrie France Estonie

Categories
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Exploring Franco-Estonian cultural differences: Key to successful international partnerships

Exploring Franco-Estonian cultural differences: Key to successful international partnerships

In today’s globalized business world, borders between countries are no longer insurmountable barriers, but bridges to new opportunities. However, to successfully cross these borders, it is essential to understand and respect the cultural differences that can exist between nations. With this in mind, we spoke to Mari-Liis Garciaan Estonian entrepreneur based in France, who shares her valuable experience of the nuances between Estonian and French business approaches.
Communication and Work Style
Mari-Liis points out from the outset that communication and working styles vary considerably between Estonia and France.
In Estonia, exchanges between the different levels of hierarchy are more permeable , encouraging direct exchanges and the free expression of opinions, even if they run counter to management.
In France, on the other hand, questioning authority can be frowned upon.
Meetings in Estonia are marked by their efficiency and conciseness, generally lasting no more than 30 minutes, whereas in France they are often planned for longer periods, without always leading to clear decisions right from the first meeting.
Time and Flexibility
There are also significant differences in terms of time management.
In Estonia, payments are processed quickly, with payment of an invoice expected within a week of issue, whereas in France, payment times can extend to 30 days or more. Similarly, responsiveness to e-mails is higher in Estonia, where replies are sent within half a day, whereas in France it’s more common to wait a few days before replying.
Approach to Negotiation
When it comes to negotiation, cultural differences are also apparent. In France, the practice of haggling is common, particularly when negotiating tariffs, where the parties are often expected to make concessions in order to reach an agreement. In Estonia, on the other hand, negotiation may focus more on other aspects such as volumes or additional services, rather than on tariffs themselves.
This is because Estonians believe that the proposed tariff is generally a fair price that is not up for negotiation.
Professional seduction
In France, professional seduction is a sometimes surprising but ubiquitous feature of the business world. This practice can manifest itself in relations between superiors and subordinates, between colleagues, but most often it takes place in interactions with customers.
Seducing the customer to sell one’s product is a French art that can be confusing at first.
However, Mari-Liis notes that she has learned to understand and integrate this dynamic, which seems to be an integral part of the French professional fabric.
Teleworking
In Estonia, teleworking is more widespread and better accepted. Estonians have embraced teleworking in a significant way, enabling greater flexibility and a better work-life balance.
This telecommuting culture can be attributed to a number of factors, including mutual trust between employers and employees, and technological advances that facilitate remote collaboration.
In France, the notion of presence at work is highly valued, often translating into a pronounced presenteeism where employees are expected to be in the office from 9am to 7pm.
Although telecommuting has gained in popularity, a perception persists that working from home means less work done.
Attitudes towards age and education
Differences in attitudes to age and education are also striking.
In Estonia, it’s common for a relatively young person to occupy a managerial position. This approach is based on the recognition of individual skills and merits, irrespective of age.
In France, on the other hand, age is often perceived as an important criterion for occupying positions of responsibility, which can sometimes limit opportunities for young talent.

What’s more, the social norms surrounding education vary between the two countries. In Estonia, possession of a Master’s degree is highly valued and can open many professional doors.
In France, possession of a Master’s degree is not as highly valued, in the sense that to exercise a certain profession you need to hold a diploma in that precise field and not just any Master’s degree.

Attitudes towards Employee Well-Being and Alcohol Consumption
In Estonia, a growing awareness of the importance of employee well-being is reflected in initiatives such as sports subsidies or massage sessions, reflecting a growing awareness of mental and physical health at work.

In France, although the issue of well-being is taken into account, bureaucratic and cultural obstacles can hinder its implementation. This disparity is particularly noticeable between large companies, which often offer ergonomic benefits and adaptations, and VSEs and SMEs, where access to such benefits is more limited and often requires complex procedures involving the occupational physician.

This disparity between the practices of large corporations and VSEs and SMEs is little or non-existent in Estonia.

Finally, Mari-Liis points out an interesting difference when it comes to alcohol consumption at business meetings. In France, it is often considered normal to have a glass of alcohol at business meetings, which can be seen as a way of lightening the mood and strengthening social ties.
In Estonia, on the other hand, the consumption of alcohol during business meetings is less common, and even inappropriate in certain contexts.

Conclusion
By taking into account these surprising but instructive observations, companies seeking to establish cross-border collaborations between Estonia and France can better understand the cultural nuances that influence professional interactions . The insights gained from interviewing Mari-Liis Garcia reveal notable differences in communication, time management, negotiation and professional attitudes.
By recognizing and respecting these nuances, companies can not only avoid misunderstandings, but also build solid, mutually beneficial partnerships based on mutual respect and awareness of the cultural specificities of each country.
With this in mind, the bi-cultural support offered by CAdFE to facilitate exchanges between companies is of crucial importance.
By offering a holistic approach, CAdFE helps to overcome cultural barriers and maximize collaboration potential, thus contributing to the success of cross-border partnerships between Estonia and France.
Disclaimer:
The observations presented in this interview with Mari-Liis Garcia reflect her personal perception of the cultural nuances between France and Estonia in the business context.
It is important to note that these perceptions are subjective and may vary from person to person.
They are not intended to represent an absolute truth, but rather to offer an insight into individual experiences of cross-border collaboration.

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Accelerate your business thanks to the 1st private network of French companies in 94 countries: 119 chambers | 33,000 companies | 4,000 events | 300 committees | 1,200 exclusive advantages

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Copyright 2024 Chambre de Commerce et d’Industrie France Estonie

Contact us!

✉ contact@ccife.ee
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CCI France-Estonie is proudly affiliated to CCI France International, the worldwide network of French Chambers of Commerce and Industry.

Download the CCIFI Connect application

Accelerate your business thanks to the 1st private network of French companies in 94 countries: 119 chambers | 33,000 companies | 4,000 events | 300 committees | 1,200 exclusive advantages

Exclusively for members of the CCI Françaises à l’International, discover the CCIFI Connect app.

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Copyright 2024 Chambre de Commerce et d’Industrie France Estonie

Categories
Articles

Gastronomic stay at Etoiles de Mougins

Gastronomic stay at Etoiles de Mougins

Remember:

On December 2, 2023, CAdFE invited you to a gastronomic evening with chef Frédéric Jaunault at Hõlm Restoran (Tartu).

This special event was co-organized by Les Étoiles de Mougins, an international French gastronomy festival, the French Embassy in Estonia and CAdFE.
France Group is offering its members a special gourmet trip during this international French gastronomy festival, which takes place in the south of France from September 14 to 15, 2024 in Mougins.

“Les Étoiles de Mougins” is an international gastronomy and culinary arts festival that brings together tens of thousands of people to meet the world’s greatest chefs and share their recipes, secrets and passion for cooking.

Launched in 2006 as a tribute to Roger Vergé, chef at the Moulin de Mougins, the event attracts over 15,000 people every year.
For two days in September, the streets and squares of the old village of Mougins, in the Alpes-Maritimes, welcome around a hundred French and foreign chefs to share their skills and passion with the public.

Numerous activities are on offer, including cooking demonstrations, oenology and cooking lessons, competitions, culinary workshops, concerts, book signings and meetings.
In all, more than 1,000 cooking classes are given during the festival.

Find out more about the festival : link
The Gourmet Trip to the Côte d’Azur during the Festival Les Étoiles de Mougins will take place from September 13 to 20, 2024, this offer is reserved for CAdFE members.
The gourmet stay on the Côte d’Azur includes a visit to the Festival Les Étoiles de Mougins, cooking and mixology workshops, wine tastings, excursions to picturesque villages, wellness activities such as golf and massages, as well as visits to historic sites and vineyards, with an optional day including activities such as a boat excursion, wine tasting at the Abbaye de Lérins, a visit to the Fragonard perfume factory, tea time with a couturier and spirits tasting.
Find the full exclusive offer here :

For more information on the activities of Bureau de Conseil France Group :

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Categories
Articles

Breaking News: CAdFE launches 6 new services

Breaking News: CAdFE launches 6 new services

The Club d’Affaires des Francophones en Estonie (CAdFE) is proud to announce the launch of our first six service offers, now available on our website.
As the future Chambre de Commerce et d’Industrie France International, we are the main facilitator of business relations between French-speaking communities and Estonia.
As such, we provide customized solutions to support companies’ presence in our dynamic region.
Our range of services is designed to meet the diverse needs of businesses, from advice to implementation, ensuring that everyone has the support they need to thrive in the Estonian market and beyond.
1 Facilitating Connections :
At CA(d)FE, we specialize in promoting bilateral trade between Estonian and French companies.
Our Contact service connects companies from both countries, facilitating smooth collaboration and the discovery of reliable partners.
Whether you’re an Estonian company looking for expansion opportunities in France, or a French company looking to penetrate the Estonian market, we simplify the process, ensuring efficient access to a network of trusted professionals.
2.Search for Suppliers and Subcontractors :
Finding the right partners is crucial to the success of any business project. With our Supplier and Subcontractor Search services, we use our expertise to identify quality partners tailored to your specific needs.

Whether you’re looking for suppliers for your operations in Estonia, or subcontractors for specialized projects, trust CA(d)FE to simplify the process and ensure the success of your initiatives.
What’s more, we facilitate personal introductions and manage the initial discussion process to ensure productive results and concrete follow-up steps.

3.market research :
Understanding the local market is essential to making informed decisions.
Our Market Research service offers in-depth analysis of the Estonian market, providing valuable information on trends, opportunities and challenges.
Armed with this knowledge, you can make strategic decisions to optimize your business operations and capitalize on emerging opportunities in Estonia.
4.customized study tours :
Discover Estonia with our Customized Study Tours.
Immerse yourself in key areas such as the digitization of public services, the e-residency system, e-health, genomics, education, start-ups, green technologies and artificial intelligence… Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or a corporate executive, our immersive, educational programs offer valuable insights and networking opportunities into the Estonian ecosystem.
5.Contact and commercial follow-up with a bicultural consultant:
Effective communication and understanding of cultural subtleties are essential for successful cross-border partnerships.
Our Bicultural Consulting service bridges the gap between French and Estonian companies, facilitating seamless collaboration and fostering mutually beneficial relationships.
N We offer personalized support, ensuring clear communication and an in-depth understanding of cultural contexts and business practices.
6.Support Complete business start-up support:
Launch your entrepreneurial project with confidence with our Business Creation service.
From initial planning to legal registration, we offer comprehensive assistance in setting up your business in Estonia.
Our experts guide you every step of the way, ensuring a smooth, hassle-free experience as you establish your presence in this dynamic market.
At CAdFE, we’re dedicated to helping businesses thrive in the dynamic landscapes of Estonia and France. With our tailored solutions and unwavering commitment to excellence, we’re your trusted partner for unlocking new opportunities.
More services will be added in the coming months.
Contact us today to request our services: contact@ccife.ee
Discover our services

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Categories
Events

Free sports day for children in Ülemiste (Tallinn)

Free sports day for children
in Ülemiste (Tallinn)

Our member Richard Peers, coach at British Football School International, invites children aged 7 to 12 to take part in a dynamic sports training event led by professional British coaches. Held at the International School of Tallinn on Monday April 22, this free event promises an immersive experience for youngsters.

What to expect:
Inclusive atmosphere: Boys and girls aged 7 to 12, of all abilities, are welcome, fostering an inclusive environment where every child can excel.

Language development: Participants will be able to practice English in a supportive environment, improving both their language skills and their cultural understanding.

Expert guidance: UEFA-qualified British coaches will provide expert training, drawing on their extensive experience in the field.
Event details :

  • Date: Monday, April 22

  • Location: International School of Tallinn, Keevise 2, Tallinn, 11415.

  • Sessions :

    • 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. for ages 9-12

    • 1:00-3:00 p.m. for ages 7-8

Why attend:
This event offers much more than just sports training.
It provides a platform for children aged 7 to 12 to learn new skills, build friendships and grow as individuals in a welcoming environment.
Participants will train in a club atmosphere specially designed for children, fostering teamwork and camaraderie.

Don’t miss this exceptional opportunity for your children to develop physically and mentally while enjoying the pleasure of sport!
Register now to reserve their place.

Places are limited, so register now!
Facebook event to register: https: //fb.me/e/4lcQOuTS9

Tel: +372 712 0884

Viber/WhatsApp: +40 799 686 835
Telegram: @BritishFootballSchool

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Categories
Articles

Bilateral trade between Estonia and France in 2023

Bilateral trade between Estonia and France in 2023

Summary: While trade in goods between France and Estonia fell by 5% in 2023, Estonian service exports to France rose sharply (+22%).
Although Estonia managed to generate a trade surplus in services, the final trade balance was close to equilibrium, with France conceding a deficit of 17 million euros.
Against a difficult backdrop of falling commodity prices and falling trade with Russia, France moved up one place to become Estonia’s 12th economic partner.
Nevertheless, in comparison with Estonia’s neighbors, Germany and the Anglo-Saxon world, France remains a second-rate partner.
Conversely, Estonia is the Baltic country with which France trades the least, so the partnership remains limited.

  • Trade in goods between France and Estonia is growing, but remains limited

In 2023, trade in goods between France and Estonia fell slightly (-5%), but France’s small trade surplus increased. Estonian exports fell by 7% and French exports by 4%, to 351 and 401 million euros respectively.
As in 2022, France thus achieves a trade surplus, estimated this year at 49 million euros (+29%).
However, France’s relative share of Estonia’s market has risen, making it Estonia’s 12th largest trading partner (up 1 place). Although these figures are down, given that Estonia’s foreign trade in goods has had a difficult year (-16% for exports and -17% for imports), France’s share of Estonian trade in goods is increasing.
By 2022, France will be Estonia’s 13th customer and 12th supplier.
Including services, France moves up one place to become Estonia’s 12th economic partner.
Trade with France accounts for 1.9% of Estonia’s foreign trade (+0.2 points), i.e. about as much as the Near and Middle East (including Turkey) or Russia in goods trade.
In France, although wood continues to dominate, high value-added products have seen their share in the composition of goods trade increase in 2023. Estonia exports electrical and electronic equipment (27% in 2023), wood (25%), chemicals (8%) and transport equipment (7%).
The top five products sold by value from Estonia are telecommunications equipment, plywood, sawn timber, firewood and prefabricated buildings.
Partly as a result of falling raw material prices, trade concentrated on high value-added products: trade in electrical and electronic equipment rose by 15%, in transport equipment by 19%, while trade in wood products fell by 21% and in chemicals by 48%.
The composition of our exports to Estonia is stable, and trade is also concentrated on high value-added products, as well as metal components, wines and spirits. Exports are made up of electrical and electronic equipment (25%), transport equipment (16%), metals (14%) and prepared food products (13%, including 61% wines and spirits).
Variations in content are less marked than those of Estonian exports: trade in metals has fallen (-32%), that in transport equipment has risen by 13%, and the rest of the variations are unremarkable.
The top five products sold by France in value terms are cars, rolled steel plates, wine, tractors and medicines.
Spirits, beauty products and perfumes also feature in the top ten.

Of Estonia’s 88 million euros in wine imports, France holds the leading market share at 24%, followed by Italy at 22%.
France also has the third-largest market share (13%) of Estonian spirits imports (96 million euros, representing a growing market of 9% by 2023).
France also leads Estonia in perfume sales (6 million euros, or 16% of the market).

  • Franco-Estonian trade in services has doubled since 2019.

In 2023, while French exports fell slightly, Estonian exports of services were very dynamic (+22%). In 2023, bilateral trade in services rose by an average of 8%, with a 22% increase for France and a 6% decrease for Estonia.
The year 2023 thus marks the transition from a balanced trade balance (+2 million euros for Estonia) to a French deficit (67 million euros).
The latter exceeds the Estonian deficit on trade in goods, making the bilateral relationship a small deficit for France: -17 million euros.
In the medium term, trade in services between Estonia and France is growing strongly: it has doubled since 2019.

France is Estonia’s 11th most important partner for trade in services, and 40% of the value exchanged comes from services: this is slightly higher than the Estonian average of 34%.

Most of this trade consists of “other business services” (including R&D, consulting): Estonia exports 53% of these services, 24% of IT and information services, 9% of transport and 7% of tourism, while France exports 56% of “other business services”, 18% of tourism, 13% of transport and 7% of IT and information services.
In addition, Estonia exports more IT services (due to its digital model), while France concentrates more on tourism and transport.

  • Conversely, these partnerships remain timid.

Although the trend is encouraging, France is still a second-rate partner for Estonia. Although France’s share of Estonia’s trade has risen to 12th place, this is due more to the fall in trade with Russia (-92% in imports of Russian goods) than to any real increase in bilateral trade.
The slight drop in value traded, relative to the trend, can also be explained by the structure of trade around high value-added goods, which are less subject to commodity prices.

Even if Estonia’s main partners are its neighboring countries (Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Sweden), some countries comparable to France outperform Estonia . Germany is an essential partner for Estonia (3rd partner, 4 times more trade than France) and the UK is one of its main partners for services (6th place, 9th partner overall).
Italy performs similarly to Estonia, but with a greater concentration on trade in goods (13th partner, 10th in services and 21st in goods).

For most of its best-selling products (cars, tractors, pharmaceuticals), France remains a second-tier supplier.
In automotive equipment, France accounts for just 2.5% of Estonia’s car imports (40 million euros), around 9 times less than Germany and 12 times less than Sweden.
In the tractor segment, France accounts for 8% of imports, i.e. the 5th largest market share.
Finally, in the pharmaceuticals segment, France also accounts for only 3% of Estonia’s 600 million euros in imports.
Conversely, Estonia accounts for just 0.06% of French trade in goods.
With trade amounting to €755 million, Estonia is the Baltic country with which we trade the least, just behind Latvia (€839 million) and far behind Lithuania (€2 billion).

Data source: Statistics Estonia/Eesti Pank, Banque de France

Article source: Direction Générale du Trésor, Ministry of the Economy, Finance and Industrial and Digital Sovereignty

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Categories
Conferences

FICE 2024 conference to unveil annual survey results and address concerns “Do foreign companies want to stay in Estonia?”

FICE 2024 conference to unveil annual survey results and address concerns "Do foreign companies want to stay in Estonia?"

The Foreign Investors Council of Estonia (FICE) is set to host an exclusive conference on April 17, 2024 to answer a pressing question: “Do foreign companies want to stay in Estonia?”
The event promises an in-depth exploration of the current landscape of foreign companies operating in Estonia, with perspectives from industry leaders, policymakers and economists.

The conference will kick off with a keynote address by Tiit Riisalo, Minister of Economic Affairs and IT, who will set the framework for discussions surrounding the results of the FICE 2024 survey.
Participants can expect in-depth panel sessions focusing on the concerns and opportunities highlighted in the survey results.
“We invite all foreign companies and investors in Estonia to join us for what promises to be a stimulating and productive event,” said Peter Thomsen, President of FICE.
“This conference offers a platform for meaningful dialogue on the future of foreign investment in Estonia and how stakeholders can work together to foster a conducive business environment.”

Two panels will bring together CEOs, economists, entrepreneurs, politicians and policymakers to dissect the survey results and address critical questions about the future of foreign business in Estonia.

First panel: “Concerns of foreign companies in Estonia”, Speakers:

🟥 Tiit Riisalo, Minister of Economic Affairs and Information Technology, Estonian Government

🟥 Sirli Männiksaar, Country Manager, Ericsson Estonia and Chairman of the Board of Directors

🟥 Karsten Staehr, Professor of Macroeconomics at TalTech – Tallinn University of Technology, and part-time research advisor at Bank of Estonia

🟥 Dr Scott Levy, CEO of BlueMount Capital (UK) Ltd.

🎤 Moderator: Kris Leinatamm, effectiveness consultant for organizations and teams

Second panel: “What do foreign companies in Estonia need to thrive?”, Speakers:

🟥 Lenno Uusküla, Chief Economist of the Luminor Group in Estonia and Associate Professor of Macroeconomics at the University of Tartu

🟥 David Clark, Venture Partner, Tera Ventures

🟥 Edmund Smolarek, Möhring Group executive, CEO of Balti Spoon OÜ

🎤 Moderator: Bart Cosijn, FICE secretary and founder of the Estonian Dialogue Academy

In addition, the conference will feature the much-anticipated announcement of the House of the Year.
Representing foreign chambers of commerce from eight countries and accounting for almost 80% of total foreign direct investment in Estonia, we are committed to facilitating constructive engagement between foreign investors and local stakeholders to stimulate sustainable economic growth.
Date: Wednesday, April 17, 2024 Times: 9:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Location: Blu Hotel Olümpia, Tallinn

Full program and early registration via https://lnkd.in/d9_3MbGy

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