The strategic partnership will focus on a number of prioritised cooperation areas. These are mainly security and defence, defence industry, investment and competitiveness, digital innovation, green transition and energy, and critical minerals and clean technologies. 

– Deeper cooperation with Canada within Sweden’s areas of strength – energy and critical raw materials – should create value, both in terms of increased economic value and secure value chains. By deepening our common security and promoting free trade, competitiveness and innovation, we are taking responsibility for our part of the world, says Ms Busch.

– Both Canada and Sweden are rapidly increasing their investment in defence in response to security threats. Closer industrial cooperation offers considerable value as we strengthen our defence capabilities. Moreover, bilateral defence cooperation contributes to a stronger transatlantic link and the security of our Allies, says Mr Jonson. 

Sweden and Canada

Relations between Canada and Sweden are extremely good and are characterised by shared interests and values such as democracy, human rights, the rule of law, the rules-based international order and free trade. Both Canada and Sweden are NATO members.

Canada is Sweden’s 14th largest export market (2024). The largest product categories exported from Sweden to Canada are pharmaceuticals, mineral oil products, telecoms equipment, cars, machinery and iron and steel. Imports consist primarily of machinery, aircraft, measuring and monitoring instruments and copper.

There are approximately 130 Swedish subsidiaries established in Canada, and even more Swedish companies are represented through distributors. Around 85 Canadian companies are established in Sweden. Conditions for increased trade and investment in the green and digital transition are promising.