Sweden’s open and therefore highly competitive market means U.S. companies face strong competition from Swedish and third-country suppliers.  U.S. exporters must offer advanced technologies as well as competitive prices and terms in order to succeed.
 
Sweden’s high cost of living, with expensive labor and individual tax rates, are among the highest worldwide.  A valued-added tax (VAT) rate of 25 percent applies to the import or sale of most products.  Representing about 18 percent of Sweden’s GDP, public procurement at all levels is much higher than the EU average of 13 percent.  Incorporating innovative products and services into the public tender process remains a major systemic challenge.