The Swedish industry does not believe that the economy will improve in the near future, shows the Swedish Central Bank's latest corporate survey.
"It did not get better, as we expected in May", says a participant in the survey.
Even in trade, optimism has been dampened compared to the spring, according to the Swedish Central Bank. Weak demand is pushing prices, they note.
"It will probably take longer for the customer to shake off the past few years", says a participant.
But according to the survey, there are simultaneously hopes in trade that there can be room for price increases in the long run, when households' purchasing power strengthens.
The lower inflation and falling interest rates are expected to make it easier for the parties to agree in the upcoming collective bargaining round, according to the survey.
The survey is based on interviews with representatives of Sweden's largest companies in industry, construction, trade, and parts of the service sector – conducted from September 25 to October 4. The survey also included employer organizations and trade unions.
