As one of Europe’s most internationally connected economies and a leading hub for technology, pharmaceuticals, financial services, and innovation, Ireland continues to offer significant opportunities for Swedish companies. Strong institutions, an English-speaking workforce, close transatlantic ties, and access to the EU market make Ireland an attractive destination across multiple sectors.
At the same time, companies point to a more demanding operating environment. Infrastructure constraints, housing shortages, skills availability, customs procedures, and administrative complexity continue to affect competitiveness and business operations. Companies also note that transport connectivity and digitalisation remain areas where further improvements would strengthen Ireland’s attractiveness.
Cooperation between Sweden and Ireland remains strong within sectors such as healthcare and life sciences, industrial equipment, technology, transportation, retail, and professional services. Ireland’s continued investments in infrastructure, digitalisation, sustainability, and innovation continue to create opportunities for Swedish companies offering high-value and sustainable solutions.
Competitiveness in Ireland is closely linked to cost efficiency, brand awareness, client collaboration, and staff development. The Swedish brand continues to be associated with quality, sustainability, innovation, and reliability.
Ireland is widely regarded as an attractive and stable market with strong institutional frameworks, high levels of personal safety, and a business-friendly environment. However, companies also point to infrastructure pressures, labour shortages, and administrative challenges as ongoing concerns.
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ABOUT THE SURVEY
To assess the opportunities and challenges faced by Swedish companies in international markets, Team Sweden conducts annual Business Climate Surveys across multiple markets worldwide. This year’s survey in Ireland includes responses from 31 Swedish companies operating in the country. Industrial companies represent a significant share of respondents, while professional services and consumer companies also make up a considerable share. The majority of respondents have been active in Ireland for more than five years.
We would like to extend our sincere appreciation to all participating companies and respondents who contributed to this report. Team Sweden in Ireland hopes that the findings will serve as a basis for continued dialogue with Irish authorities and other relevant stakeholders.
