Sweden's export industry is heavily dependent on developments in Europe. Nearly three-quarters of Sweden's goods exports go to Europe. The most important trading partners for Sweden are Germany, Norway, and the USA.
Europe is most important
Europe's importance for Sweden Europe is the largest market for Swedish export goods. In 2023, exports to Europe amounted to SEK 1,536 billion. A large part of this, SEK 1,156 billion, consisted of exports to other EU countries.
Gods imported
Where does Sweden import from? Even when it comes to imports, Europe is an important region for Sweden. Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, and Denmark are the main import countries. However, it is important to note that import figures can be misleading, as they often show the country where the goods first entered the EU, rather than the country of origin.
Why is trade important?
Why is trade important for Sweden? Trade is a key driver of the Swedish economy. By exporting goods and services, Sweden creates jobs and generates income. Imports enable access to goods and services that Sweden does not produce itself.
Top 10 trading partners for Sweden 2023
Sweden's trade relationships in 2023 showed significant activity with various countries, measured in billion SEK (SEK bn):
- Germany: The largest trade partner for both export 221.05 bn and import 342.20 bn.
- Norway: A strong partner with exports at 196.03 bn and imports at 221.83 bn.
- USA: A major export destination 188.46 bn but lower in imports 70.17 bn.
- Denmark: Balanced trade with exports at 147.92 bn and imports at 130.77 bn.
- Finland: Close trade ties, with exports at 144.87 bn and imports at 97.68 bn.
- United Kingdom: Exports reached 114.03 bn, while imports stood at 74.69 bn.
- Netherlands: Significant imports 221.65 bn, but slightly lower exports 113.65 bn.
- France: Exports at 94.08 bn and imports at 76.45 bn.
- Belgium: Exports amounted to 91.62 bn, with imports at 106.14 bn.
- Poland: Exports were 80.76 bn, and imports were close at 90.98 bn.
Source: Ekonomifakta
