Sweden and the United Kingdom share a longstanding and robust trade, investment and business partnership. Across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, approximately 1,200 Swedish and Swedish-affiliated companies have established a presence, with many more engaging in exports from Sweden to the UK. Each year, Business Sweden in the UK actively supports over 50 companies in evaluating, entering, and expanding within the UK market.

Opportunities for Swedish companies 

The UK offers many opportunities across diverse industries and a supportive environment for start-ups and scale-ups to flourish. Swedish companies not only find ample opportunities to conduct business but also leverage the UK as a springboard for global expansion. In sectors such as Defence and Security, Energy, Healthcare and Life Science, Technology, and Transport, where Swedish firms can significantly contribute, Business Sweden maintains extensive networks for support.

On the bilateral front, Sweden and the UK signed a Strategic Partnership in 2023, outlining six key areas for enhanced cooperation: Trade and Investment, Security and Defence, Science and Innovation, Energy, Nature and Climate Change, Global Cooperation, and People-to-People relations. For Swedish companies active in the UK market, this Partnership serves as a strategic guide, facilitating engagement with pertinent stakeholders and guiding activities effectively.

Possible challenges

Swedish businesses view the UK as a pivotal reference market for global activities. However, as highlighted in our interview with Trade and Invest Commissioner and Country Manager Gustaf Bergström, Swedish companies face challenges navigating the ongoing readjustments post-Brexit.

How we can help

Business Sweden (the Swedish Trade and Invest Council) has maintained a presence in the UK since 1973. Our team of 14 professionals forms part of a global network exceeding 500 experts across more than 40 markets. Business Sweden offers a wide range of consulting services, including Market Expansion, Sales Acceleration, M&A, Public Affairs, Supply Chain Management, Business Support Services, as well as Government-Enabled Services such as Invest Promotion, Business Delegations, Events, and Trade & Invest Facilitation. In our London office, we also provide strategic advice and operational support for businesses interested in the Republic of Ireland.