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Swedish SMEs Expand Into Southeast Asia In Business Sweden's ‘Triple-Country’ Mission

KUALA LUMPUR, March 11 (Bernama) -- Swedish small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are setting their sights on Southeast Asia as a key growth market, with a delegation of 24 companies embarking on a study tour to Thailand, Vietnam and Malaysia from March 10 to 14, led by Business Sweden.

Stockholm-based Business Sweden, the official investment promotion agency of Sweden, said in a statement shared with Bernama that the visit marks its first-ever ‘triple-country’ trade mission, underscoring the growing importance of the region for Swedish businesses.

Organised under Sweden’s broader Asia initiative, the mission aims to help its SMEs expand beyond traditional markets and explore new business opportunities.

Business Sweden's regional director for South and Southeast Asia, Emil Akander, highlighted the strategic importance of the region, describing it as a prime destination for Swedish businesses seeking expansion.

"Asia is expected to drive global economic growth in the coming years. With shifting demographics, major infrastructure and manufacturing investments, and rapid technological advancements, Southeast Asia offers vast opportunities for Swedish companies to expand their customer base, production capabilities, and R&D partnerships," he said in the statement.

The delegation, representing various industries, will engage with potential business partners, local authorities and Swedish companies already operating in the region. The visit follows a nationwide lecture tour across Sweden in 2024, designed to raise SME awareness of Asia’s economic potential.

Akander noted that Thailand, Vietnam and Malaysia are key players in global supply chains, making them increasingly relevant for Sweden’s trade and investment strategies. Throughout the visit, participants will gain insights into market trends, regulatory landscapes, and the impact of EU sustainability policies on local industries.

Business Sweden has offices in over 40 countries, helping Swedish companies grow their global sales and international companies invest and expand in Sweden.

-- BERNAMA