Swedish Manufacturers Face Trade Barriers Amid Record Revenue Forecasts

While optimism for order intake and top-line growth has reached its highest point since the report launched in 2015, the sector remains stuck in a defensive posture. Fredrik Wadsten, CEO of Triathlon Group, notes that companies are resisting capital expenditure, with 65% of firms planning to keep investment levels unchanged for the coming year. This hesitation suggests that persistent geopolitical uncertainty and the tangible costs of trade friction are tempering the industry's otherwise bullish revenue outlook.

Export-heavy businesses, which represent roughly 51% of sales for the firms studied, are feeling the most acute pressure. The survey reveals that 58% of manufacturers categorize the impact of trade barriers as moderate or significant, specifically citing erosion of margins and restricted market access. With only 26% of companies planning to increase investments and 40% expecting to grow headcount, the Swedish manufacturing sector appears to be prioritizing stability over aggressive expansion as it navigates a volatile international trade environment.