Business leaders from 28 countries take part in Join Sweden Summit, the Government’s investment conference

The Join Sweden Summit is aimed at strengthening Sweden’s attractiveness to investors and promoting its position as a leading country of innovation. 

The summit, arranged by Business Sweden, took place on 19 February at the Strawberry Arena, and was the largest of its kind to date. Over 600 leading international and Swedish companies, investors and decision-makers gathered to exchange knowledge, network, and explore investment possibilities in Sweden. Around 300 of the attendees were international guests representing 250 companies from 28 countries.

High level of involvement from the Swedish Royal House, the Government and the business sector

HRH Prince Daniel opened the conference, while several Government Ministers also held keynote speeches. One of the main messages was Sweden’s strong role as a trading nation with openness to the outside world, a positive view of free trade and a will to cooperate and share expertise on the green and digital transition.

“When products manufactured in Sweden are exported, both global climate efforts and Swedish society benefit,” Mr Kristersson emphasised during his opening speech.  

Minister for Energy, Business and Industry Ebba Busch talked about the importance of international cooperation in turning today’s challenges into opportunities.

“Sweden is a leading country for innovation, always open to new ideas, investment and partnerships. We don’t just offer fossil free electricity and world-leading expertise, but also an investment climate built on trust and close cooperation between central government, the business sector and academia.” 

Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade Benjamin Dousa highlighted the need for foreign investment to increase competitiveness.

“Sweden needs foreign investment to create more jobs in Sweden. Some 800 000 people work for foreign-owned companies in Sweden today, and new foreign-owned startups and expansions in Sweden are expected to provide a further 3 000 jobs within the next two years.”

Other Ministers in attendance included the Minister for Migration and Asylum Policy Johan Forssell, Minister for Health Care Acko Ankarberg Johansson, Minister for Finance Elisabeth Svantesson, Minister for Financial Markets Niklas Wykman, Minister for Education Johan Pehrson and Minister for Infrastructure and Housing Andreas Carlson.