Sweden's role in the future of global production

Industry is currently in a period of rapid change. Digitalisation, electrification and increased sustainability demands require rapid adaptations, and companies need to accelerate their transformation and development. 

– We are seeing increasing competition for components, materials and expertise, while geopolitical tensions are rising. Therefore, the Swedish manufacturing industry must act to stand strong in this transition, says Cecilia.

Sustainability as a success factor  

A crucial factor in this transition is sustainable and resilient production. Cecilia believes that sustainability is not only a must to meet the climate goals, but also an opportunity for Swedish industry to strengthen its competitiveness. ‘Resilience means, among other things, that companies gain greater control over the value chain and over inputs such as energy, components and expertise,’ says Cecilia.

– Sustainability requirements are a powerful driver of innovation and efficiency in a way we have not seen before. Stricter EU rules on carbon emissions and resource management mean that companies need to adapt quickly. Early movers will have a clear competitive advantage in the market. The pandemic is behind us, but we are facing major changes as competition for resources and talent intensifies. To increase resilience, we need digital traceability, but we also need to remove political barriers, which today can hamper the development of a circular economy, explains Cecilia.

Collaboration - the key to success

According to Cecilia, one of Sweden's greatest strengths is the ability to collaborate between companies, research institutes and academia.

– Sweden has a long tradition of collaboration, which is crucial to rapidly develop and implement new technologies and sustainable solutions. Initiatives such as Produktion2030 and Net Zero Industry are concrete examples of how industry is jointly driving sustainable innovations forward. The collaboration gives us the speed and flexibility needed to meet the challenges of the future, Cecilia continues.

Elmia Subcontractor - a showcase for Swedish industry

Elmia Subcontractor is an important platform for demonstrating Sweden's industrial strength and innovative power. Cecilia sees the fair as a perfect opportunity for companies to make new contacts and explore collaborations.

– The theme of this year's fair, “Navigating change together”, sums up exactly what we need right now - a common focus on meeting the challenges of the future. Together we are stronger, Cecilia continues.

Action and confidence in the future

Despite the challenges facing Swedish industry, Cecilia sees great opportunities ahead. She emphasises the importance of being prepared and acting quickly to succeed. 

– By investing in sustainability, driving innovation and capitalising on our strong tradition of collaboration, Swedish industry can not only meet the demands of the future, but also take a leading position globally. I look forward to continuing the discussion at Elmia Subcontractor, where we can delve deeper into the global trends that are shaping the future of Swedish industry, Cecilia concludes.

Listen to Cecilia Warrol on Wednesday 13 November at 09.50 on the Main Stage - "Hur kan innovativa Sverige ha en plats i framtidens produktion – ur ett globalt perspektiv?" (only in Swedish)