Sweden offers a stable and innovation-driven economy, characterised by a highly skilled workforce, transparent regulatory frameworks, a stable economy and an emphasis on sustainability. Key sectors include green energy, technology, life sciences, and advanced manufacturing. Sweden’s strong governmental support for green energy and technological innovation makes it an attractive environment for foreign investors, offering robust infrastructure and a stable legal framework. For further information, visit our page ‘Why Sweden?'. Learn more: Business Sweden - Why Invest in Sweden

Sweden’s primary exports to Qatar include machinery, medical equipment, telecommunications equipment, and vehicles. In 2022, key exports were Iron Ore ($231M), Iron Pipes ($38.5M), and Gas Turbines ($31.6M). These exports reflect Sweden’s industrial strengths and its contribution to infrastructure development in Qatar. Learn more: OEC - Trade Sweden and Qatar Kommerskollegium - Trade Statistics: Sweden Qatar

Sweden's Trade Strategy focuses on enhancing the nation's global competitiveness by strengthening trade, investments, and innovation. It promotes sustainable growth, particularly in the green and digital sectors, through a rules-based and open trade system. The strategy aims to simplify regulations, attract international skills, and foster public-private partnerships to boost exports and foreign direct investments. This strategy offers opportunities in sectors such as technology, energy, and innovation, providing access to a well-established ecosystem that supports both investment in Swedish businesses and acquiring Swedish talent. Learn more and read the trade strategy: Government Offices of Sweden - Strategy for Sweden’s trade, investment and global competitiveness

Visit Sweden Abroad for more information regarding visa requirements. Book an appointment with VFS Global, should you require a business visa.

There are several informative authorised sources with step-by-step guides for non-EU citizens and entities, depending on the form of the business you want to set up. Below are some useful websites with further information and guides. Also, remember to check for the latest updates on regulations and legal requirements. View our page on ‘How to do business in Sweden’. Learn more: Business Sweden - Start a company in Sweden Sweden - How to start a business in Sweden Verksamt - Setting up a business Swedish Companies Registration Office (Bolagsverket) Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket) - Starting business in Sweden

Key sectors for foreign investment include energy, technology, life sciences, transport and advanced manufacturing. Sweden provides substantial support for sustainable and innovative businesses, making these sectors particularly attractive for investment. Learn more on our page ‘Investment’. Learn more: Business Sweden - Key Investment Sectors

Sweden offers a wide range of incentives to attract foreign investors. View our page ‘Investment’ for further information. Sustainability and Green Energy Incentives: Initiatives like The Industrial Leap and The Climate Leap provide grants to companies investing in projects aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and advancing sustainable technologies. Grants can cover up to 100% of investment costs depending on the project size and impact. Learn more: Swedish Energy Agency (Energimyndigheten) - The Industrial Leap Swedish Environmental Protection Agency (Naturvårdsverket) - The Climate Leap Research and Development (R&D) Grants: Sweden is one of the most R&D-intensive nations globally and offers generous R&D grants through Vinnova, the Swedish Innovation Agency. These grants are available to businesses engaged in innovative projects, particularly in industries such as automation, digitalisation, and sustainability. Learn more: Vinnova - Find the right funding Regional Investment Grants: Companies establishing in regional development areas can receive grants to cover costs for investments in buildings, equipment, and labour. The grants can cover up to 40% of the investment, depending on the location and project. Learn more: Swedish Agency for Economic and Regional Growth (Tillväxtverket) - Regional investment aid Invest in Skåne Tax Incentives: R&D tax deductions are available to reduce monthly labour costs for companies engaged in R&D activities, providing significant financial relief. Expert tax relief is also available to attract top international talent, allowing foreign employees and their employers to benefit from reduced tax rates. Learn more: Taxation of Research Workers Board (Forskarskattenämnden) These incentives make Sweden an attractive destination for foreign investors, particularly in sectors that focus on sustainability, innovation, and regional development. For further information, please visit: Business Sweden - Incentives Guide (PDF) Vinnova Verksamt

Swedish professionals offer a combination of high-level education, sustainability expertise, and innovation-driven problem-solving that can be a great asset to companies, especially those in sectors like healthcare, academia, technology, AI, and green industries. In addition, around 80% of the Swedish population is sufficient in the English language, making Sweden one of the top non-native English-speaking countries. Learn more on our ‘Technical Consultancy’ page. Swedish professionals are highly educated with a high rate of university alumni in Sweden from various disciplines. In Qatar, Swedish professionals already contribute to key sectors, particularly in healthcare, where they work as doctors and specialists, as well as in the aviation sector, where Swedish pilots, advisors and service staff are employed by airlines. Additionally, Swedish experts are also found in financial services, helping to drive innovation and growth in Qatar’s financial sector and Swedes are within academia. To attract and approach Swedish talent there are several methods to consider: LinkedIn is widely used in Sweden and a good way to advertise a position and contact persons of interest. Contacting major recruitment service organisations and consultant companies in Sweden. Partnering with Swedish universities is also a path towards acquiring recent graduates from esteemed universities like KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Chalmers University of Technology and Lund University.

It is crucial to ensure that all information is up-to-date and that you conduct thorough due diligence to comply with legal and business standards. Below are some ways to help confirm the company’s legitimacy and protect against potential risks. To verify if a company is legitimate and registered for VAT purposes in Sweden, there are several methods available: Use the Swedish Business Registers (Bolagsverket): The website Bolagsverket provides business information, including company registration and VAT status. You can use their online database to verify if a company is legally registered. Simply search for the company name or organisation number. Use the European VIES (VAT Information Exchange System): The VIES tool allows you to check VAT registration status across EU countries, including Sweden. You can visit the VIES website and search for the Swedish company’s VAT number to verify its validity. Direct Verification via the Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket): You can verify a company's VAT status through the Swedish Tax Agency. Visit the Skatteverket or contact them by phone to confirm VAT registration. Use Allabolag: This website aggregates company information, including financial data, annual reports, board members, and registration details. You can search for company details to ensure it’s a legitimate and active business. Visit Allabolag (sv) to search for company details. Review Annual Reports: Swedish companies are required to submit annual reports. These reports provide a detailed overview of the company’s financial health and operational status, which can be helpful in verifying legitimacy. Request a Certificate from the Company: Alternatively, you can request the company to provide their VAT certificate, which they can obtain from the Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket). Useful links: Swedish Business Registers (Bolagsverket) European VIES (VAT Information Exchange System) Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket) Allabolag (sv)

Here are some suggestions of steps that you can take to verify a tender. Note that it is up to each actor to ensure the tender is valid. At Verksamt, the authorities' joint website for business information services, you can find more details on rules and procedures concerning public tenders. Use Tenders Electronic Daily (TED), the EU’s procurement platform, for tenders over the EU threshold. Most Swedish public tenders are published here. For other tenders that do not reach the EU threshold, visit Swedish Competition Authority (Konkurrensverket) (sv) where a list of registered platforms where all other tenders are published – platforms like Mercell or Kommers Annons. Check the tender structure – official tenders have detailed information, including scope, deadlines, and official contact details. Verify the issuing authority via professional emails and cross-reference contact details with official websites, such as @trafikverket.se, @dom.se or @sida.se. Useful links: Verksamt - Public Tenders Tenders Electronic Daily (TED) Swedish Competition Authority (Konkurrensverket) - Procurement Advertisement Register (sv) Mercell Kommers Annons - Publication Site

Sweden’s robust innovation landscape aligns perfectly with Qatar’s drive for economic diversification under the Qatar National Vision 2030. Both countries share a commitment to sustainability, technology, and cutting-edge research, making Sweden an ideal partner in supporting Qatar's transition to a knowledge-based economy. Both Swedish and Qatari entities benefit from access to technology, knowledge exchange, and R&D collaborations. Sustainability and Green Technology Sweden is a global leader in green energy, with strengths in wind power, bioenergy, and sustainable urban development. These technologies align with Qatar’s ambitions to diversify its energy sector and invest in sustainable infrastructure, fostering collaboration that benefits both countries. By working together, Qatar can leverage Swedish expertise to advance its clean energy goals, while Swedish companies gain valuable opportunities to expand into the Qatari market through strategic partnerships, enhancing shared economic and environmental objectives. Learn more: Swedish Energy Agency National Planning Council - Qatar National Vision 2030 Digital Transformation and Smart Cities Sweden’s expertise in digitalisation, AI-driven solutions, and smart city development complements Qatar’s initiatives, such as Lusail City and other technology-driven sectors like fintech, AI, and telecommunications. Swedish companies can support Qatar’s digital transformation and help create efficient, high-tech urban spaces, while Swedish firms gain access to Qatar’s growing tech sector. Learn more: AI Sweden QRDI Council Collaboration in Research and Development (R&D) Sweden’s focus on R&D in fields like biotechnology, medical technology, and energy efficiency presents significant opportunities for collaboration with Qatar, which is expanding its healthcare and tech industries. This partnership enables knowledge exchange in life sciences, precision medicine, and sustainable technology, benefiting both countries. Learn more: QRDI Council (Qatar Research Development and Innovation) Vinnova (Swedish Innovation Agency) Ashghal (Qatar Public Works Authority) - Health Qatar Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) - National Health Strategy Swecare & Life Science Advanced Manufacturing and Industrial Automation Sweden is at the forefront of advanced manufacturing and industrial automation, helping Qatar boost its manufacturing capabilities and reduce reliance on imports. Swedish technologies in smart industries can assist Qatar in building high-tech manufacturing sectors and enhancing sustainable production processes. Learn more: Business Sweden - Industrials

Foreign investors can leverage Sweden’s innovation ecosystem through R&D tax incentives, public-private partnerships, and access to a strong network of research institutes and universities. The Swedish Innovation Agency (Vinnova) offers grants and funding opportunities for companies engaged in innovation and digital transformation. Learn more on our page ‘Investment’. Learn more: Business Sweden - Incentives Guide (PDF) Vinnova

Sweden is at the forefront of AI and tech development, particularly in autonomous systems, robotics, climate tech, healthcare, fintech, cyber security, big data, and machine learning. The country’s AI strategy is supported by initiatives from AI Sweden and the government’s commitment to making Sweden a leading digital nation. For example, the use of AI in healthcare and life sciences is of increasing interest, as well as the use of AI to enhance sustainability efforts. Learn more on our page: ‘AI, Tech and Telecom’. Grants and financing for AI projects can be applied for through Vinnova. Learn more: Vinnova - AI AI Sweden AI Sweden - Healthcare

Sweden is leading in several innovative energy initiatives, driving a future focused on green energy solutions and sustainable technologies. Learn more on our page ‘Energy’. Here are some of the major energy projects: 1. Hydropower Optimisation Sweden continues to improve its hydropower capabilities by modernising its facilities. As a long-standing source of energy for the country, hydropower projects are designed to ensure optimal performance and energy reliability for future generations. Learn more: Swedish Energy Agency 2. Wind Power Expansion Sweden is rapidly expanding its wind power capacity with projects like the Markbygden Wind Farm, one of Europe’s largest onshore wind projects. These initiatives significantly contribute to the nation's energy mix, showcasing Sweden’s commitment to harnessing natural resources to meet its energy needs. Learn more: Swedish Wind Energy Association 3. Bioenergy and District Heating Sweden has developed highly efficient bioenergy and district heating systems, making use of natural resources to power cities. This system is a shining example of Sweden’s approach to smart energy use, ensuring that urban areas benefit from sustainable and efficient energy networks. Learn more: Bioenergy International 4. Nuclear Power Nuclear power is a crucial component of Sweden’s energy system, providing a stable energy source. Sweden operates several nuclear reactors, which contribute around 30% of the country’s electricity production. Nuclear energy capacity as part of its long-term energy strategy. The Swedish government is currently focused on facilitating investments in new nuclear reactors to ensure energy security and support the green transition. This includes financing models and risk-sharing mechanisms to encourage new nuclear developments, which will play a vital role in stabilising the energy grid. Learn more: Strålsäkerhetsmyndigheten - Nuclear power Swedish Energy Agency Swedish Government (Regeringen) - Investment in new nuclear power (sv) These projects highlight Sweden’s role in shaping the future of energy technologies and reflect the country’s commitment to being a leader in innovative energy solutions. Learn more: Swedish Energy Agency European Commission - Sweden’s Energy Goals

Sweden’s involvement in Qatar’s energy sector primarily focuses on providing advanced technologies, energy efficiency solutions, and supporting sustainability initiatives. Centered on green energy technologies, energy efficiency, and smart grid solutions, with growing research collaboration. Sweden’s expertise is valuable to the Qatar National Vision 2030. View our page on ‘Energy’ to learn more.

Sweden is a global leader in healthcare innovation, with significant opportunities in several areas. Learn more on our page ‘Healthcare’. Life Science Strategy Sweden’s Life Science Strategy focuses on building a globally competitive life sciences sector by strengthening collaborative research and data-driven healthcare. The strategy also emphasises increasing funding for foundational research through initiatives like the SciLifeLab and boosting public-private partnerships in areas such as clinical trials and medical technology. Between 2021 and 2024, the Swedish government allocated SEK 30 million each year through Vinnova for the development of infrastructure aimed at molecular diagnostics and treatments, supporting research and innovation in Sweden's life sciences sector. Learn more: Swedish Government (Regeringen) - Life Science Strategy (sv) Digital Health Sweden is at the forefront of telemedicine, AI-driven diagnostics, and remote patient monitoring. Startups and established companies are developing solutions to make healthcare more accessible and personalised, driven by strong government support for digitalisation in healthcare. Learn more: AI Sweden - Healthcare Business Sweden - Life Science Biotechnology Sweden’s life sciences sector is robust, with a focus on biopharmaceuticals, precision medicine, and clinical research. The country is home to world-class research institutions and is known for its collaboration between academia, industry, and healthcare providers. Learn more: Swecare - Life Science in Sweden Karolinska Institutet - a medical university (ki.se) Medical Devices Innovation in medical devices is thriving, especially in areas like wearable health tech and diagnostic tools. Companies working on new technologies to improve diagnostics, treatments, and patient outcomes can find ample opportunities in the Swedish market. Learn more: Swedish Medical Products Agency (Läkemedelsverket) - Medical devices Business Sweden - Life Science

Sweden’s defence industry is globally renowned for its advanced military technology and reliability, with companies like Saab and BAE Systems Hägglunds producing cutting-edge equipment such as fighter jets, armoured vehicles, and submarines. Swedish Innovation: Sweden is a leader in aircraft, naval systems, and land defence innovations, with companies like Saab driving technological advancements. Sustainability: Sweden’s defence sector integrates eco-friendly technologies into its manufacturing processes, aligning with global sustainability efforts. Government Support: The Swedish government, through the FMV (Swedish Defence Materiel Administration), supports the defence industry’s innovations and international partnerships. R&D Leadership: Sweden excels in R&D, particularly in AI, cyber defence, and autonomous systems, making it a valuable partner for joint defence research. Sweden’s defence sector offers advanced technologies, sustainable solutions, and opportunities for collaboration. Learn more on our page ‘Defence’.

Sweden focuses on several key sectors to maintain and enhance its global competitiveness. These sectors are driven by Sweden's commitment to innovation, sustainability, and advanced technology. Learn more on our page ‘Sectors and Opportunities’. Energy and Sustainability Sweden leads in green energy solutions, with a strong focus on wind power, bioenergy, and energy efficiency technologies. The country’s ambition to achieve 100% sustainable electricity by 2040 positions it as a global leader in environmentally friendly solutions and green technology exports. Learn more on our page ‘Energy’. Learn more: Swedish Energy Agency Business Sweden - Energy Industry Sweden prioritises advanced manufacturing and automation across industries such as automotive, machinery, and precision engineering. The country supports smart industry technologies, enhancing efficiency and sustainability in production processes. Find more details on our page ‘Industry’. Learn more: Business Sweden - Industrials Defence: Sweden's defence sector plays a significant role in its foreign trade, particularly through exports of advanced military equipment and technologies. Swedish defence companies, such as SAAB and Bofors, are known for their innovative solutions in aerospace, missile systems, radar technology, and armoured vehicles. Sweden is a trusted exporter in the global defence market, supplying high-tech military equipment to countries with stringent defence procurement standards. Swedish expertise in defence systems is also aligned with the country’s commitment to security cooperation and peacekeeping missions. For more details on Sweden's defence sector, go to our page ‘Defence’ Learn more: The Swedish Defense Materiel Administration (FMV) - Defence Export SAAB Healthcare and Life Sciences Sweden excels in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and medical technology. The country is home to world-class research and development in precision medicine, digital health, and bio-pharmaceuticals, making it a key player in global healthcare innovation. Learn more about Sweden's Life Science sector on our page ‘Healthcare’. Learn more: Swecare & Life Sciences Business Sweden - Life Science Retail Sector Sweden’s retail sector is a vital component of its foreign trade, with Swedish brands like IKEA, H&M, and Volvo playing a significant role on the global stage. Swedish retail companies are known for their focus on sustainability, innovation, and quality. The country exports a wide range of consumer goods, including furniture, fashion, and home appliances, to markets across Europe, Asia, and North America, making retail a critical export sector. Learn more on our page ’Retail’. Learn more: Business Sweden - Consumer Goods Transport The transport sector is another key driver of Sweden’s foreign trade, particularly through the export of automotive and heavy vehicles, as well as air and waterborne transport. Companies such as Volvo, Candela, ACR and Saab are Swedish companies within the transport sector. Sweden is also a hub for sustainable transport solutions, with a strong focus on electric vehicles and green logistics, contributing significantly to the country’s export economy. Learn more on our page ‘Transport’. Learn more: Business Sweden - Transport AI, Tech and Telecom Sweden is a global leader in information technology (IT), telecommunications, and digital innovation. The country prioritises growth in AI, fintech, blockchain, and smart cities, supporting its ambition to be a leading digital nation. Find more information on our page ‘AI, Tech and Telecom’. Learn more: AI Sweden Business Sweden - Digital Technology Financial Services and Fintech Sweden is a hub for fintech innovation, with a focus on digital payments, blockchain, and financial cybersecurity. Swedish companies are global leaders in developing secure and efficient financial technologies, reinforcing the country's reputation as a fintech powerhouse. Learn more: Kommerskollegium - What is the fintech market like in Sweden? (2016) Business Sweden - Sweden's Digital Technologies Ecosystem

The trade between Qatar and Sweden has experienced consistent growth, driven by complementary sectors and increasing cooperation between the two nations. In recent years, Qatar has diversified its economy under the Qatar National Vision 2030, which has enhanced trade with Sweden, notably in healthcare, technology, and energy, among other sectors. Swedish companies contribute to Qatar’s push towards sustainability and digital transformation, further strengthening trade ties. In September 2024, Sweden and Qatar signed six Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) to enhance cooperation in various fields, including trade, investment, and research. Qatar Chamber and Business Sweden signed an MoU to strengthen bilateral cooperation between the two countries. As part of this initiative, they are introducing an annual Sweden-Qatar Business Forum, which would alternate between being hosted in Sweden and Qatar. This forum aims to deepen business ties, encourage investment opportunities, and foster collaboration across key sectors in both countries. Learn more: OEC - Qatar and Sweden Trade Government Communications Office - Qatar National Vision 2030 Qatar Chamber - Sign Agreement to Boost Cooperation Gulf Times - Qatar, Sweden sign 6 MoUs to enhance ties (News Article)

Currently, there is a EU-GCC Cooperation Agreement in place since 1988, of which trade with Sweden falls under. In 2022 the GCC and EU Commission together with the High Representative adopted a Joint Communication on a strategic partnership, proposing a comprehensive and stronger partnership between the two regions. There were trade negotiations regarding a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the regions between the 1990s and early 2000s. In October 2024, the first ever EU-Gulf Cooperation Council summit was held, chaired by the European Council President, Charles Michel and the rotating president of GCC, H.H. Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. Learn more: European Commission - The EU and the Gulf region European Council - First EU-Gulf Cooperation Council summit Sweden and Qatar maintain strong trade relations. Sweden exports various goods to Qatar, such as machinery, telecommunications equipment, and medical products. Qatar exports primarily Refined Petroleum and Ethylene Polymers to Sweden. These exchanges are driven by individual business partnerships and projects, especially in sectors like energy, construction, and technology. In 2024, Sweden and Qatar signed six Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) to enhance cooperation in various fields, including trade, investment, and research. Qatar Chamber and Business Sweden signed an MoU to strengthen bilateral cooperation between the two countries. As part of this initiative, they are exploring the possibility of hosting an annual Sweden-Qatar Business Forum, which would alternate between being hosted in Sweden and Qatar. This forum aims to deepen business ties, encourage investment opportunities, and foster collaboration across key sectors in both countries. Learn more: OEC - Sweden and Qatar Trade Kommerskollegium - Trade Statistics: Sweden Qatar Qatar Chamber - Sign Agreement to boost cooperation Qatar Chamber - Qatar-Sweden trade surged by 79 percent, says Qatar Chamber Chairman

NATO indirectly influences business and diplomatic relations between Sweden and Qatar by contributing to regional and global stability, which is essential for fostering secure environments for trade and cooperation. Although Qatar is not a NATO member, it engages with NATO through partnership programs that focus on security cooperation and counter-terrorism. Sweden’s NATO Membership Sweden as of 2024 is a NATO member. The security guarantees are strengthened, which may positively impact its diplomatic standing and economic confidence. This enhanced stability can reassure international investors and partners, including those from Qatar, that Sweden remains a reliable partner for business and trade, especially in sectors like defence, technology and energy. Learn more: Government Offices of Sweden - Sweden in NATO Qatar's NATO Partnership Qatar has been a partner of NATO since 2005 through the Istanbul Cooperation Initiative (ICI), focusing on security cooperation in areas like counter-terrorism, maritime security, and military training. This partnership strengthens regional security and allows Qatar to collaborate with NATO on shared defence goals. Learn more: NATO - Partnerships Impact on Trade and Investment By supporting regional stability, NATO’s influence helps secure trade routes and energy corridors vital for global business, including the energy exports from Qatar that reach Europe. Sweden’s closer ties with NATO enhance its strategic security framework, making it a more attractive destination for Qatari investments in sectors like infrastructure, energy, security and telecommunications. Visit our page ‘Defence’ for more information on the defence trade sector. Learn more: Business Sweden - Doing business with NATO

Sustainability reporting refers to the mandatory disclosure of a company's impact on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors. In Sweden, large companies must provide detailed reports on areas such as: Environmental impact (emissions, energy usage, waste management). Social responsibility (employee rights and welfare & gender equality). Human rights (focusing on operations and supply chain ethics). Anti-corruption (steps to prevent corruption and promote ethical business practices). Learn more: International Labour Organization (ILO) - Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) European Commission - Corporate sustainability reporting

Some non-EU companies must comply with sustainability reporting regulations if they have a significant presence. If a non-EU company establishes operations or investments within the EU that classify as a large company (i.e., over 250 employees or generate over EUR 150 million on the EU market), they must submit sustainability reports in line with EU regulations. Further, conducting reporting and engaging in CSR activities is beneficial as a competitive advantage for cooperation with EU-based entities as reporting up- and down-stream in the supply chain becomes obligatory. Learn more: International Labour Organization (ILO) - Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) European Commission - Corporate sustainability reporting

Meet sustainability reporting requirements if the company is classified as large. Follow Sweden's current environmental and labour regulations. Companies involved in sensitive sectors, such as energy or tech, may need additional permits or licences. Learn more: Swedish Financial Supervisory Authority (Finansinspektionen) - Sustainability Reporting