FDI in figures

FDI flow to Sweden slowed down in 2008 and 2009. Nevertheless, the country maintains a high level of appeal to foreign investors because of its multilingual and qualified workforce, and its very high per capita purchasing power. The country is preceded only by Ireland, Belgium and Hong Kong in terms of per capita FDI receipt.

The government has undertaken to develop support for investments through expanding sectors (biotechnologies and food processing), as well as on rapidly growing markets (Baltic countries, India, Brazil, etc.). There are gaps in the food processings field as well as in the housing and interior design sectors.

Why you should choose to invest in Sweden

Strong points

The political and economic situation is very favorable and the quality of the business environment is good. This environment favorably influences the way companies behave in making payments. The average probability of defaulting is very low.
According to the World Bank, Sweden is amongst the world's first 10 economies in terms of facility of business undertakings. The survey takes into account the following indicators: the formation of one's own company, hiring and dismissing employees, executing contracts, loan availability, registering one's capital and investor security.
The Swedish tax system is direct and corporate tax is amongst the lowest in Europe. The country applies contribution exemptions, authorizes total tax deductions on interest, and does not have strict capitalization rules.
The legal system is balanced and ensures sound, transparent and reliable hearings. Contracts are standardized and documents are often used for simple procedures, especially for mortgages.
The quality of management and consultancy services is very high, and commercial formalities and procedures are easy to undertake.
For further information, consult the ISA website.

Weak points

The country's only weak point is the high cost of manpower.

Government measures to motivate or restrict FDI

Since it joined the European Union, the Swedish government has established a number of reforms to improve the business legal environment. This has enabled it to attract foreign investors and increase competitiveness.
Sweden is ranked n° 1 by the OECD in terms of public spending, especially in promoting investment.

Bilateral investment conventions signed by Sweden

To see the list of countries, click here.
To see the conventions, click here.

Procedures relative to foreign investment

Freedom of establishment

Yes.
It takes two to three weeks once the Swedish Company Registration Bureau has received the written application.

Acquisition of holdings

Taking a majority holding in the capital of a Swedish company is allowed. Click here.

Obligation to declare

The investment promotion agency in the country gives information about the authorizations necessary for setting up.

Competent organization for the declaration

The Swedish Company Registration Bureau (Bolagsverket)

Finding assistance for further information

Investment aid agency

Invest in Sweden Agency (ISA)
Almi Foretagspartner
NUTEK

Other useful resources