Global Business Climate Survey and Business Climate Survey Australia 2026
Summary of key findings and copies of the reports
Global Business Climate Survey 2026
The 2026 Global Business Climate Survey covers 41 international markets, providing a comprehensive picture of the business environment for Swedish companies around the world.
Despite geopolitical uncertainty and a more challenging global environment, Swedish companies continue to demonstrate resilience and optimism. Globally, 64% of companies reported profitability, while 65% expect turnover growth during the coming year.
The Asia-Pacific region remains the most optimistic globally, with markets such as India and Vietnam showing particularly strong growth expectations. Investment intentions also remain positive across most regions, reflecting continued confidence in international expansion opportunities.
One of the survey’s strongest findings is the continued value of Brand Sweden, with 82% of respondents stating that Sweden’s reputation provides a competitive advantage in international markets. Innovation, sustainability, quality, and trust remain key strengths associated with Swedish companies.
Across global markets, companies identified cost efficiency, sales competence, and strong local partnerships as the most important factors for maintaining competitiveness. At the same time, regulatory complexity, taxation, licensing requirements, and customs procedures continue to be among the most common business challenges. See the launch presentation here: https://stockholmshandelskammare.se/nyheter/fortsatt-framtidstro-trots-global-turbulens/
Business Climate Survey Australia 2026
Based on responses from 47 Swedish companies operating in Australia, the survey highlights a business community that remains financially strong, confident about future opportunities, and committed to long-term growth in the market.
A majority of respondents reported profitable operations and expect increased turnover and continued business growth over the coming year. Australia continues to be viewed as a stable and strategically important market, offering a strong combination of economic resilience, purchasing power, transparency, and institutional stability.
Investment confidence remains high, with more than half of surveyed companies planning to increase investments during the next 12 months. While businesses continue to face challenges such as rising costs, financing pressures, and regulatory complexity, these factors have not diminished their long-term commitment to Australia.
The survey also highlights the importance of local presence, customer proximity, partnerships, and brand awareness as key drivers of success. The Swedish brand remains a significant competitive advantage, particularly through its association with innovation, sustainability, quality, and reliability.
Overall, the findings confirm that Australia remains a priority market for Swedish companies seeking long-term growth and a strong platform for Asia-Pacific operations.
Conclusion
Both surveys demonstrate that Swedish companies remain resilient, growth-oriented, and committed to international markets despite increasing global uncertainty.
While Australia stands out as a stable, attractive, and investment-friendly market, the global results show that Swedish companies continue to perform strongly across a diverse range of markets. Across both reports, confidence in future growth, the importance of local relationships, and the strength of Brand Sweden emerge as common themes underpinning business success.
Attachments:
Thank you to all companies who participated in the survey. We look forward to welcoming you to take part in next years survey!
Please contact us for further information about the reports at sacc@swedishchamber.com.au
