France is the world’s seventh largest economy and Europe’s third biggest market with 67 million consumers. With its central position in Europe, well-developed infrastructure and attractive establishment opportunities, many foreign investors are keen to invest in France.

Favourable investment climate

France’s highly developed infrastructure and favourable investment climate have long attracted significant foreign investment and continue to do so despite the economic downturn. Large investments are made in the high-tech industry and there is a large pool of highly skilled workers. It is also an important gateway and steppingstone to the French-speaking parts of the Caribbean and Africa.

Exports on the rise

Sweden and France have been trading partners for hundreds of years. It started with Sweden’s export of timber and iron, which gave us textiles, wine and salt in return. Swedish exports have increased in the last few years, something that 400 Swedish companies have capitalised on by having an active presence in the country.

The legal framework

Today, Swedish companies that plan to develop a physical presence with local staff in France should be aware that the country has a legal framework with strong workers’ rights. Our Trade & Invest commissioner Annika Stål has advice on how to deal with this situation in the interview below.

How we can help

Business Sweden has been present in Paris, the world’s most visited city, since the late 1970s. Together with our staff based in our Swedish offices, we offer a full range of services for companies that want to grow sales on the French market. Our services include providing strategic advice, producing market analyses, helping you to get in touch with key stakeholders and suitable business partners, and much more.