According to a recent survey conducted by OP Pohjola, a high percentage of large companies in Finland, 85%, view the increase of immigration as a key factor in promoting the country's economic growth. This perspective persists even in the face of elevated unemployment figures. The survey also reveals that over 70% of respondents believe simplifying the recruitment of foreign workers could enhance their international competitiveness. Companies indicate that as the working-age population ages and exits the labor market, immigration will play an increasingly vital role in sustaining Finland's economic growth.

Katja Keitaanniemi, the CEO of OP Corporate Bank, emphasized the critical importance of recruiting foreign skilled labor to avoid it becoming a bottleneck for growth in both large businesses and the Finnish economy as a whole. The findings suggest that large companies view Finland as a primary recruitment area, with EU countries following closely behind in popularity for sourcing labor. Additionally, 22% of the surveyed firms are considering India as a significant recruitment destination, followed by other Asian countries such as China.

This survey underscores a growing recognition within Finland's business community of the need for a more open immigration policy to address labor shortages, especially as demographic shifts result in an aging workforce. The implications are profound, as they suggest that for Finland to maintain its economic momentum, policy adjustments regarding immigration may be necessary, aligning with the views of large corporations that are crucial to the national economy.