What lies like a wet blanket over the economic development is uncertainty, says SKR's chief economist Emelie Värja when the report was presented.
She notes that uncertainty contributes to continued low economic growth for the municipalities and that the regions have in achieving positive results.
Demographic changes with a decreasing number of children and a large increase in the elderly affect the municipalities and require them to make major changes.
Few on minus
The municipalities are expected to make a total result of 17 billion kronor this year, compared to 16 billion in 2024. In that figure, there are large differences, but only 18 municipalities expect a result of zero or lower, compared to 104 last year, according to the report.
According to the report, most municipalities face major investments in everything from water and sewage (VA) to climate adaptations and expansion of civil preparedness.
SKR writes in the report that these investments require state support.
"To meet these challenges, long-term and predictable state support is required. The state must once again take an active role, both as an enabler and co-financier. Targeted investment grants and value-secured state grants are crucial for municipalities to fulfill their future commitments."
Preventive medicine
When it comes to the regions' economy, another tough year is expected, where the result is expected to land just below zero.
The costs of care have risen faster than the population over the past ten years, partly due to increased preventive medication, leading to rising pharmaceutical costs. Another explanation for the increased costs is the increased lifespan.
