Food industry needs international talent

Why Satakunta’s food industry must embrace international skills and perspectives

Unemployment is on the rise in Satakunta. According to a recent press release from the Satakunta ELY Centre, 11,320 residents in the region have been registered as unemployed. Among them, 1,290 foreign nationals – the highest number ever recorded.

These numbers indicate a serious challenge, not only for those seeking work but for the region as a whole. Meanwhile, Satakunta’s food industry is experiencing a growing demand for people, skills and fresh perspectives. The gap between available talent and industry needs has never been clearer.

The food industry in Satakunta is full of opportunities, but we need people to build that future. Against the backdrop of today’s contradictory labor market situation, Satakunnan Biolaakso views internationals not as an untapped resource but as a vital part of the future of food in the region.

We believe that international students, professionals and migrants are an essential part of that future.

This is why we focus on building bridges: connecting international talent with companies that need their skills and energy. We support international students in Satakunta in finding their place in the food industry. It’s important to help local companies discover the skilled, motivated workforce they need.

We strongly believe that workers, students and professionals with international backgrounds bring knowledge, energy and global connections that can strengthen every link of the food chain – from farming and processing to research and business development. These students bring with them the latest knowledge, diverse perspectives and a real desire to contribute.

We want to say this out loud: you are welcome here. Your background, your knowledge and your experience are all valuable for the future of food and for our communities.

Supporting integration is therefore not just a social goal but a strategic investment in the resilience and competitiveness of Satakunta’s food industry.

Integration doesn’t happen by accident. It happens through encounters, collaboration and the feeling that you belong. That’s why it’s so important to build bridges between international talent and the food industry. We see international talent not as a challenge, but as a strength. For us, every connection made is a step toward a stronger, more sustainable, and more inclusive and international food sector.

Satakunnan Biolaakso brings together people, ideas and knowledge. International voices must be part of that conversation. If you’re part of this region, you’re already part of the future. Let’s build it together.