Stockholm, June 13, 2025 – The Europe Today: Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính on Wednesday co-chaired a business forum in Stockholm alongside Swedish Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade Benjamin Dousa, calling on Vietnamese and Swedish enterprises to actively strengthen economic connectivity and foster robust bilateral cooperation.
In his keynote address, Prime Minister Chính emphasized the vital role of businesses as the driving force of the two economies and encouraged firms from both nations to take the initiative in building new partnerships. He underscored the commitment of the Vietnamese and Swedish governments to creating an enabling environment by devising strategic policies and facilitating conditions conducive to sustainable and mutually beneficial investment.
The Vietnamese leader outlined Việt Nam’s ongoing efforts to consolidate institutions, enhance infrastructure, and develop high-quality human resources. He noted that the country is implementing a comprehensive reform agenda, which includes restructuring the political system and local administration, promoting scientific and technological innovation, accelerating digital transformation, deepening international integration, and building a self-reliant and resilient economy.
Prime Minister Chính reaffirmed Việt Nam’s consistent policy of protecting the legitimate rights and interests of enterprises, maintaining political stability, social order, and ensuring legal and policy transparency — all of which contribute to a secure and predictable investment climate.
Expressing optimism about the future of bilateral economic cooperation, Chính voiced his belief that the strong foundation of the Việt Nam–Sweden relationship would pave the way for a new wave of Swedish investment in Việt Nam. He also called for greater resolve and innovative approaches to elevate the bilateral partnership to new heights.
Minister Benjamin Dousa echoed these sentiments, highlighting the growing importance of Việt Nam–Sweden collaboration in an evolving global landscape. He pointed out that Sweden, known for its world-class workforce, advanced technologies, and robust global network, is well-positioned to expand cooperation with Việt Nam, especially in clean technology, innovation, and high-quality services.
Representatives from participating enterprises showcased their strengths and discussed opportunities for joint ventures, particularly in areas such as the green transition, technological innovation, and digital transformation of industries.
As of 2024, bilateral trade between Việt Nam and Sweden reached US$1.48 billion. Sweden currently ranks 29th among 149 countries and territories investing in Việt Nam, with 111 projects and total registered capital amounting to US$743.39 million. Over 70 Swedish companies are operating in Việt Nam, including major global players such as Ericsson, ABB, IKEA, Electrolux, Volvo, and H&M. Conversely, Vietnamese investment in Sweden remains limited, with only three projects worth nearly US$1 million.
At the conclusion of the forum, Prime Minister Chính and Minister Dousa witnessed the signing of seven cooperation documents covering key areas, including aviation and the development of next-generation artificial intelligence (AI) technologies.
The forum marked a significant step in strengthening the strategic economic partnership between Việt Nam and Sweden, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to enhancing cooperation for sustainable and inclusive growth.
