Sweden's global position in 48 strategically important technologies

Sweden has strength in research, but we find it more difficult to transfer this into new technological solutions and innovations. To maintain our competitiveness, we need to invest more strategically, make better use of our potential, and break the downtrend in Sweden’s traditional areas of strength, says Sylvia Schwaag Serger, President of IVA.

Sweden first to conduct in-depth technology analysis after Draghi report

One year ago, the Draghi report concluded that the EU is lagging behind the US and China in productivity and innovation. IVA is now presenting a new, data-driven analysis that maps Sweden's position in 48 strategically important technologies – crucial to our future prosperity, economic resilience, and national security. The analysis was developed by the European think tank CEPS, which contributed similar data to Mario Draghi's report on the competitiveness of the EU. Sweden is the first EU member state to conduct an in-depth technology analysis following the Draghi report. The report is based on data from publications, patents, and venture capital investments between 2010 and 2025.

The results reveal a mixed picture: Sweden demonstrates global leadership in areas such as space technology, autonomous vehicles, batteries, and propulsion technology, but is losing ground in life sciences, robotics, and smart grids.

Sweden has untapped potential

The report shows that Sweden has untapped potential in strong scientific areas such as MedTech, synthetic biology, semiconductors, and VR/AR technologies. The analysis confirms that we are scientifically strong in these areas, but that they are not being sufficiently exploited to strengthen technological leadership.  Regionally, areas around Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Lund are strong innovation hubs. The report points to opportunities for both low-risk investments and bold “moonshot” initiatives in future areas such as quantum technology, hydrogen, and synthetic biology.

Recommendations:

• Invest in technologies that can be used in many sectors, especially AI.
• Strengthen the ability of leading research to contribute more to Sweden's growth and competitiveness.
• Break the downtrend in areas that are important to Sweden through investments, for example in robotics and smart grids.
•  Invest in and promote areas of strength by stimulating regional specialization.

With this report, IVA aims to help Sweden take a leading role in the global technology landscape by 2035. We need strategic investments and clear priorities now to ensure Sweden's future competitiveness.

Read more and download the report here