As a global economic powerhouse, the United States is a cornerstone market for many international companies looking to expand their operations overseas. For many years, its high GDP per capita and economic maturity have helped make it a major draw for Swedish companies.
This report presents the fifth edition of our Business Climate Survey of Swedish companies
operating in the United States. The most recent business results and outlooks for the overall future are mostly positive, with 56 per cent of respondents reporting profitable performances and 58 per cent indicating plans to increase their investments in the US market.
The US government has created new complexities for international companies, mainly due to the Trump administration’s imposition of new tariffs and restructuring of government operations.
Yet despite the resulting uncertainty around trade relations, the US economy has remained resilient and Swedish companies continue to see significant opportunities in the market.
The ‘Swedish brand’ is perceived as a beneficial asset by many companies operating in the US, though its impact varies. Smaller companies tend to find the Swedish image a more valuable asset compared to larger ones, with consumer product companies reporting a higher significance than others. Respondents reported that Sweden’s reputation for quality and innovation resonates strongly with consumer markets, and the high standards associated with Swedish brands for qualities like reliability, design excellence, and environmental responsibility helped enhance appeal and build trust.
While sustainability is a growing concern globally, it has yet to become a primary driver for business decisions in the US market. According to the respondents, success in the US market is mostly driven by sales competence and partnerships, as well as continuous innovation and adaptation to meet market demands and stay ahead of competitors. Additionally, the survey indicates the regions of top priority for Swedish companies in the US are California, Texas, and New York.
Want to read a full overview of the survey results with detailed analysis? Download the report today.
ABOUT THE SURVEY
The Business Climate Survey is a tool used to map the challenges and opportunities Swedish companies face while operating abroad. This report aims to provide an overview of the current business climate in the United States and highlight key factors for Swedish firms to consider when doing business in the US. This year’s survey was conducted with the participation of 85 Swedish companies active in the US market. The respondents represent a diverse range of business profiles and sizes.
We extend our sincere appreciation to all participants for their insights, which have been invaluable in shaping our understanding of the current business climate and fostering stronger partnerships between Sweden and the US. Team Sweden in the US is proud to continue fostering strong bilateral relations between Sweden and the US and supporting Swedish businesses in their US growth journey.
