In-depth Study: The Future of Industry

Swedish industry has long been a cornerstone of the country’s prosperity and capacity for innovation. However, in the face of rapid technological development, increasing geopolitical uncertainty and intensifying global competition, the sector is now confronting new and complex challenges.

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Through the in-depth study The Future of Industry, IVA brings together representatives from business, academia, expert communities and policymakers to identify strategic pathways and strengthen Sweden’s productivity, innovative capacity and long-term competitiveness. 

Per Grunewald
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"As conditions become more challenging, time becomes a critical factor. The ability to act decisively in the moment often makes the difference between success and a loss of competitiveness."

Per Grunewald, Chair of the Steering Committee

About the Project

The Future of Industry

Project period: 2026–

Chair of the Steering Committee: Per Grunewald

Project leader: Malin Mohr

A thematic in-depth study within the framework of the Swedish Futures vision project

The Future of Industry

Five Focus Areas and Working Groups for Industrial Competitiveness

  • More efficient and faster product development and industrialisation
  • Competitive and productivity-driven operations
  • Industrial collaboration – creating shared value for SMEs, large companies and Sweden
  • Knowledge development, skills and innovation capacity
  • Sweden’s industrial culture and heritage in a new global context 

The work is led by a steering committee, which has appointed dedicated working groups for each focus area.

The in-depth study The Future of Industry aims to strengthen industrial productivity and competitiveness by:

  • Improved productivity and competitiveness for Swedish industry.
  • Accelerate change processes by disseminating insights, best practices, and knowledge.
  • Highlight the importance of sustainable and flexible solutions to meet future demands and secure Sweden’s international position with long-term strength.
  •  Inspire confidence in the future and promote collaboration.

Steering Committee and Expert Groups

Swedish Futures

Events

Livestream

New analysis: Sweden's position in strategically important technologies

Monday den 29 September 2025

16:00- 17:30 CEST

Livestream

IVA Konferenscenter, Grev Turegatan 16, Stockholm

The event is streamed online

Swedish Futures

New analysis: Sweden's position in strategically important technologies

Skyline China at night

Livestream

China's Industrial and Technological Rise – Perspectives, Lessons and Challenges

Thursday den 19 March 2026

13:00- 15:30 CET

Livestream

IVA Konferenscenter, Grev Turegatan 16, Stockholm

The event is streamed online

Swedish Futures

China's Industrial and Technological Rise – Perspectives, Lessons and Challenges

Contact

Malin Mohr

Project Manager

Entrepreneurship

Telefon: +46 73 635 93 50

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Swedish Futures

“Swedish Futures” aims to develop an overarching vision for Sweden as a world-leading country of technology and innovation by 2035, with a focus on competitiveness, sustainability, and security.

Swedish Futures

“Swedish Futures” aims to develop an overarching vision for Sweden as a world-leading country of technology and innovation by 2035, with a focus on competitiveness, sustainability, and security.