Swedish Companies Stand Strong in an Uncertain World – Insights from the Global Business Climate Survey 2025
At this year’s launch of the Global Business Climate Survey 2025, representatives from the business community, government, and the Team Sweden network gathered to discuss how Swedish companies are navigating an increasingly uncertain global market and what factors contribute to their international success.
The seminar was opened by Daniella Waldfogel, CEO of the Stockholm Chamber of Commerce, who also contributed to this year’s report. The discussions clearly showed that Swedish companies, despite geopolitical tensions, rising trade barriers, and an unstable economic climate, continue to adapt and grow internationally. A full 70 percent of the companies surveyed reported a positive outlook on the business climate in their respective markets.
Picture: Business Sweden
Lena Sellgren, Chief Economist at Business Sweden, emphasized the resilience that characterizes Swedish companies:
“The fact that Swedish companies remain profitable and continue to invest, even in a dramatically changing global landscape, demonstrates impressive adaptability. This is a strength we must continue to build on, through innovation, strong partnerships, and a clear focus on competitiveness,” she said.
Digitalization and energy efficiency were highlighted as key drivers of the green transition. Telecom company Ericsson shared how their technological solutions help reduce global energy consumption. The company has set ambitious climate targets: to halve energy use in its supply chain by 2030 and reach net zero emissions across the entire value chain by 2040.
Ingrid Capacity pointed out that the biggest bottleneck in the energy transition is grid capacity and that massive infrastructure investments are needed. At the same time, they emphasized the importance of partnerships. Building relationships with local actors facilitates smoother market entry, strengthens trust, and reduces risk.
Monitor ERP presented how their sustainability module supports thousands of manufacturing companies, many of them small and medium sized, in complying with new regulations while also strengthening competitiveness through smarter resource planning and reduced environmental impact.
EKN, which insures Swedish export deals against payment risks, explained how they support both large corporations and small and medium sized enterprises in expanding internationally despite ongoing uncertainties. Common challenges for smaller companies include cash flow constraints, difficulties in managing risk, and limited access to tailored financing solutions.
Minister for Foreign Trade, Benjamin Dousa, underlined the importance of free trade and the strength of Brand Sweden in times of global uncertainty:
“In a time of growing protectionism and increased polarization, we must stand up for openness, cooperation, and innovation. Swedish companies show that sustainable solutions and strong values also make good business. That is something we should be proud of and continue to strengthen on the global stage,” said Benjamin Dousa.
Toward the end of the seminar, participants shared their best advice for companies looking to expand internationally:
Demonstrate responsibility – for both Brand Sweden and the markets in which you operate
Build strong partnerships – they help you understand the market, share risk, and scale more effectively
Make use of Team Sweden – Business Sweden, embassies, chambers of commerce, and other national organizations are there to support you
Jonas Lindström from the Swedish Chamber of Commerce in Brazil concluded with a reminder of the importance of long term thinking and collaboration:
“In times like these, it is more important than ever to build bridges, not walls. We are ready to support you, so count on us. And keep collaborating!”
