This year, we are celebrating the Chamber's 110th anniversary. An historic milestone testifying to the strong and sustainable relations between our countries and businesses. 2025 is also the 10th anniversary of the Paris climate agreement signed at Cop21. This is an occasion to blend historical legacy with forward-thinking sustainability and business strategies for a competitive Europe.

On the 1^st of December the Swedish Chamber of Commerce in France together with Team Sweden and Team France, will host a landmark edition of the French-Swedish Business Day in Paris. On the theme "A Decade of Action, A Century of Progress" and in the context of the Strategic Innovation Partnership Act signed by Sweden and France in 2017 and 2024, a high-level Business Summit and a French-Swedish Tech & Innovation Exhibition are being organised, followed by a high-level networking dinner with remittance of the Prix d'Excellence, an award that distinguishes Swedish companies for their exceptional performances on the French market.

We are now inviting French-Swedish companies to be part of this flagship celebration for bilateral businesses.

This event is organised for and with you. We trust that you will be using this opportunity to create visibility as well as build and strengthen businesses for your company, all while participating in our joint promotion of the French-Swedish economic relations.

Deadline for partnership confirmation: June 30, 2025
For more information or to discuss possible synergies, contact Katarina Lööf at katarina.loof@ccsf.fr
Let’s shape the next century of collaboration - together.

Tendium is a Swedish SaaS company founded in 2018, with a mission to make public procurement more accessible and efficient for all. By combining the latest technology with a deep understanding of their customers' needs, Tendium simplifies and enhances how businesses engage with the public sector.

In addition to their SaaS platform, Tendium offers managed services for clients who wish to fully outsource their bidding processes – acting as a one-stop shop for all aspects of building and expanding public sector business.

By increasing efficiency and lowering barriers to entry, Tendium enables broader participation and helps foster more competitive and transparent public services.

Tendium is looking to expand to the French market and is interested to find local companies that are working with the public sector.

• Vilma Uusijärvi, Business Development & Communications Intern, FIKA
• Eleonore Bohm, Senior Strategy Consultant, Accenture
• Julia Nordström, Donations, partnerships and external relations, Institut suédois

Team Sweden in France is happy to invite you to a presentation of the Business Climate Survey France 2025. The report and ensuing discussions will provide insights about the economic outlook, key facts about the market and Swedish company performances in France.

Opening by H.E. Håkan Åkesson, Ambassador of Sweden to France. Introduction by Gîta Paterson, President, Swedish Chamber of Commerce in France. Presentation of results by Annika Stål, Trade and Investment Commissioner & Country Manager France, Business Sweden. The presentations will be followed by a panel with company leaders.

The presentation is followed by a panel discussion with representatives from Swedish companies in France:

- Jean-Baptiste Corona, Regional General Manager South Europe North Africa & Country Manager Epiroc France

- Camille Pertusot, Head of Country Unit, Saab France

- Florence Simonet, Managing Director, Vattenfall Eolien

The panel will be moderated by Katarina Lööf, Managing Director, Swedish Chamber of Commerce in France.

After the discussion, we warmly invite you to stay for a networking cocktail sponsored by FIKA

At CCSF.

On June 16th, Business Sweden and Swedish Chambers International (SCI) proudly launch the sixth consecutive Global Business Climate Survey—now covering a record-high 37 markets!

Join us to explore the latest insights into the experiences, challenges, and expectations of Swedish companies operating worldwide. Hosted at the Stockholm Chamber of Commerce, this year’s event holds greater significance than ever, reflecting the survey’s expanding global reach. Gain invaluable perspectives on economic trends, key success factors, local market conditions, and sustainability – while comparing results across markets and regions.

Based on insights from more than 2,000 employees at Swedish companies across 37 markets, the report serves as a valuable source of knowledge for how to succeed abroad.

The event will be moderated by Lena Sellgren, Chief Economist at Business Sweden.

Place: Hybrid event. Regeringsgatan 29, Stockholm and online

Secure your spot now – seats are limited!

In the presence of H.E. Håkan Åkesson, Ambassador of Sweden to France. Guests of honour Pascal Cagni, Chairman of the Board, Business France and France Ambassador for International Investments and H.E. Thierry Carlier, Ambassador of France to Sweden, former Deputy General Manager DGA.

At the Embassy of Sweden.

17 septembre 18h30 - Le Lobbying européen : pourquoi participer à la prise de décision publique?

Lors de cette conférence-débat, nous échangerons sur le lobbying européen et les avantages pour l’industrie de mener une stratégie d’influence au-delà des frontières nationales. La présence des institutions européennes à Bruxelles et leur rôle clé dans l’élaboration des législations et réglementations impactant les marchés européens et mondiaux conduisent chaque année des dizaines de milliers de représentants d’intérêts, entreprises, associations professionnelles, Organisations Non Gouvernementales (ONG) et autres groupes d’intérêt à influencer la prise de décision européenne. En tant que capitale du lobbying en Europe, et dans un contexte d’affaiblissement des gouvernements nationaux, Bruxelles est plus que jamais un hub incontournable où les entreprises doivent se faire connaître pour pousser leurs intérêts stratégiques.

Avec Hannalena Ivarsson, Associée, Responsable de la Practice “Industrial Sustainability”, Kreab Bruxelles, et Cécile Huck, Directrice, Practice “Industrial Sustainability”, Kreab Bruxelles.

We are pleased to invite you to the next edition of our Young Professionals After Work series.

This time, we’ll be exploring the crucial topics of leadership and diversity with an exclusive guest: Johan Laurell, Country Retail Manager and CSO, IKEA

In today’s globalised and fast-evolving work environment, the ability to lead with inclusivity and purpose is more important than ever. Johan Laurell will share insights from his journey leading one of the world’s most iconic and values-driven brands, and how IKEA integrates diversity and inclusion into its leadership philosophy and everyday operations.

Registration link will be available soon

The French-Swedish Business Day will be celebrating the Chamber’s 110th anniversary in 2025, a historic milestone testifying to the strong and sustainable relations between our countries and businesses. 2025 is also the 10th anniversary of the Paris Climate Agreement, signed at Cop21. This is an occasion to blend historical legacy with forward-thinking sustainability and business strategies for a competitive Europe.

The French-Swedish Business Day will take place in Paris on December 1st at the historic premises of Banque de Suède et de Paris, Place Vendôme.

Tickets for the conference only will be available online soon.

The event brought together both long-time and newly joined members for a vibrant evening of networking, introductions, and inspiring conversations. New members were formally welcomed and had the opportunity to present themselves to the Chamber's growing business community.

As a special highlight, the guests enjoyed a tasting of drinks from three of our members:
Champagne Baronna – offering a refined taste of French tradition
Jaure – pure mineral water sourced from Swedish Lapland
Vitamin Well Group – refreshing and functional beverages

We were delighted to see so many familiar and new faces. Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to the warm and dynamic atmosphere.

This exclusive members-only gathering is a cornerstone of the CCSF community spirit - fostering lasting connections, partnerships, and a shared sense of purpose.

At the recent "Vies de Femmes: Positive Generation" event, organised by Teréga and JALPB Conseils during the Teréga Open Pau-Pyrénées, Sabrina Pantier, CEO of Husqvarna France, shared a powerful narrative of personal and professional transformation.

Reflecting on her journey, Sabrina spoke about the challenges she faced in the industrial sector, a domain traditionally dominated by men. She recounted moments of self-doubt and the struggle for legitimacy, even when delivering outstanding results. A pivotal moment came in 2015 when, despite holding a high-ranking position at Bosch, she chose to leave it all behind in search of her true self.

Her decision led her to the United States, where she immersed herself in coaching and personal development. This bold move was not just a career change but a profound personal transformation. Sabrina emphasised the importance of listening to one's intuition and the courage it takes to step into the unknown.

Her story is a testament to resilience, self-discovery, and the power of embracing change. It serves as an inspiration for anyone standing at the crossroads of decision, reminding us that sometimes, the most challenging paths lead to the most rewarding destinations.

IKEA inaugurates new mattress recycling facility in southern France

Polestar is a Swedish automotive manufacturer that produces premium electric cars. Principally owned by Li Shufu's PSD Investment, Geely Holding and Volvo Cars, the company is headquartered in Göteborg. With an "asset-light" approach in development and manufacturing, Polestar does not have its own manufacturing facility, instead it produces cars in facilities controlled by Volvo or Geely in several countries. Polestar is now officially entering the French market. This marks a significant milestone in the company’s European expansion strategy.

Polestar's business model in France will follow its successful global formula: a seamless digital-first experience, complemented by a physical retail presence through strategically located Polestar Spaces and service partnerships such as Volvo Cars. Customers will be able to explore, configure, and order vehicles entirely online while also having access to in-person support and test drives.

Stay tuned as Polestar prepares to hit French roads - and shape the future of electric performance.

We extend our best wishes for your success in the French market.

On 19 May, just days after the release of the EY Attractiveness Survey confirming France as Europe’s leading destination for foreign investment for the sixth consecutive year, more than 200 global CEOs gathered at the Château de Versailles for the 8th edition of the Choose France Summit.

Launched by President Emmanuel Macron, Choose France is more than just an event — it is a strategic platform to present the country’s pro-business reforms and reaffirm France’s position as a top destination for international companies. With a focus on innovation, infrastructure, and talent, the summit aims to accelerate economic activity and attract long-term investments.

This year, President Macron announced 53 new investment projects across sectors such as AI, rare metals, defence, and electronics. Among these, €20 billion in new investments were unveiled, in addition to the €20.8 billion announced earlier at the AI Summit in February.

Swedish participation during Choose France included Altor, evroc, Investor AB, Scania, SKF and IKEA reinforcing the strong ties between Sweden and France in promoting innovation and sustainable growth.

IKEA (Ingka Group), introduced a new €100M plan (2025–2030) to reduce its carbon footprint - including investments in renewable energy, greener infrastructure, and upgraded cooling systems. Their commitment reflects the growing importance of sustainable, transparent, and partnership-driven business models. On the occasion, their latest collection IKEA STOCKHOLM was on display and in use for meetings in the Palace of Versailles during the summit. A very nice combination of design by Sweden and the beautiful Château de Versailles - a treasure of French heritage.

The Choose France Summit represents indeed a yearly occasion for descision makers and representatives for Swedish entreprises to come to Paris to discuss investment opportunities with French policymakers. Their visit to France also represents the occasion to engage with other key stakeholders across the country. CCSF had the pleasure of welcoming Rickard Gustafson, CEO SKF Group, together with Mahdi Sebti, President of SKF France and Director of Industrial Sales for Western Europe and Africa. In addition to participating in the summit, they met with customers, partners, colleagues, and other strategic stakeholders in France - underscoring the value of local dialogue alongside international investment. 

Each year, nearly 400 bilateral meetings are held between French government leaders and business executives, making Choose France a cornerstone in shaping the country’s economic future.

Click here to read more about Choose France 2025

For the sixth consecutive year, France remains the leading destination for foreign investment in Europe

On 15 May, the European Commission announced €910 million in funding under the 2024 edition of the European Defence Fund (EDF) to support a more robust and innovative European defence industry. The funding aims to address strategic capability gaps, such as force mobility and counter-drone systems, by promoting research, development, and collaboration across the EU's scientific and industrial sectors. For the first time, Ukrainian defence companies will be eligible to participate in EDF-funded projects. The Commission will now work with selected consortia to finalise grant agreements, with the aim of signing them before the end of 2025.

Strengthening ties with Ukraine
This closer integration builds on the outreach efforts of the EU Defence Innovation Office in Kyiv and reflects the EU’s commitment to deeper industrial and technological cooperation with Ukraine. By involving Ukrainian partners, the EU aims to reinforce shared security objectives and support Ukraine’s integration into the European defence ecosystem.

Supporting industrial innovation through EDF 2024
The investments align with the Commission’s broader defence strategy, notably the ReArm Europe Plan and the Joint White Paper on European Defence Readiness 2030, which define a new vision for European defence and identify key investment needs. The 2024 call builds on a total EDF budget of €7.3 billion for the 2021–2027 period. The EDF promotes cross-border cooperation between businesses of all sizes and research institutions in the EU and Norway. Central to this is the EU Defence Innovation Scheme (EUDIS), which drives transformation within the defence sector.

This year, €45 million is allocated to disruptive technologies—innovations that could redefine or replace existing defence solutions through enhanced simplicity, efficiency, or cost-effectiveness. Nine projects have been selected in this category.

Selected projects and broader technological goals
The new round of funding includes a diverse range of initiatives, such as Ukraine’s Small UAS project for AI-powered aerial systems, ENGRTII, which brings together over 45 industrial and research entities to design next-generation European rotorcraft by 2030, and EUROSWEEP, aiming to establish a common European minesweeping platform based on autonomous systems.

Next steps
The Commission will now work with selected consortia to finalise grant agreements, with the aim of signing them before the end of 2025.

On 16 May, the European Commission published a Communication setting out a roadmap to end the EU’s reliance on Russian energy imports. This new roadmap outlines a coordinated strategy to phase out imports of Russian fossil and nuclear fuels, particularly gas, by boosting energy efficiency, accelerating renewables, and diversifying energy sources.

Phasing out Russian energy
The roadmap reaffirms the EU’s commitment to eliminate all remaining imports of Russian oil, gas, and nuclear materials. It includes a package of legislative and policy actions, to be proposed in the coming weeks, that aim to prohibit new import contracts, phase out existing ones, and support Member States in planning and monitoring the transition.

Key measures by energy source
On gas and LNG, the Commission will propose new legislation by June to improve the transparency and traceability of Russian gas imports. These requirements will also be extended to all gas imports as part of the 2026 energy security framework revision.

Legislation will require Member States to submit national plans to phase out Russian gas, outlining volumes, timelines, and diversification strategies, with the first plans expected by end-2025. The Commission will further propose a legal ban on all new Russian gas contracts and existing spot contracts, effective by the end of 2025. Measures to end all remaining imports under long-term contracts, both LNG and pipeline, are expected to take effect by the end of 2027. The EU will also explore scaling up AggregateEU to support the market for renewable gases, including biomethane.

On nuclear energy, new legislation will introduce trade measures to phase out Russian imports of enriched uranium and other nuclear materials. The Euratom Supply Agency will no longer approve new or extended contracts with Russian suppliers and Member States will be required to adopt national phase-out plans for Russian nuclear fuels, services, and components.

On oil, legislation will require concerned Member States to submit plans for phasing out Russian oil imports, including contract details and diversification options. Submission is expected by end-2027 at the latest, with end-2025 strongly recommended.

The roadmap includes a list of actions to address circumvention of EU oil sanctions, particularly via shadow fleets. These include closer monitoring, coordination with international partners, and encouraging Member States to step up maritime surveillance.

Next steps
The Commission is expected to table the relevant legislative proposals by June.

On 30 April, the European Commission released its midterm review of Horizon Europe, the main EU programme supporting research and innovation for 2021-2027. The midterm review will be used to enhance the impact of policies and programmes, and will inspire the upcoming Horizon Europe Work Programme, which will incorporate immediate measures to simplify the application process and project implementation. So far, €43 billion out of the €93.5 billion budget has funded more than 15,000 projects, including work on fuel cell electric buses, accessible artificial intelligence, and new antibiotics. According to the European Commission, every euro invested is expected to generate up to €11 in economic gains by 2045, although the final impact will only become clear over time.

According to the Commission’s estimates, 80% of projects funded by the European Research Council have led to scientific breakthroughs or major advances. Furthermore, every euro invested in innovative companies through the European innovation Council (EIC) Fund has attracted over three euros from private investors.

The review also highlights improved participation from less research-intensive EU countries, raising from 47% to 58%, as well as simplified grant processes aimed at making funds more accessible, especially for smaller players. Lump sum grants specifically, are estimated to reduce beneficiaries’ administrative costs by 14% to 30% over a project’s lifetime, saving up to €63 million across all lump sum projects signed so far and eliminating financial reporting requirements.

Next Steps

The midterm review will be used to enhance the impact of policies and programmes, and will inspire the upcoming Horizon Europe Work Programme later this year.

On 14 May, the European Commission unveiled a set of measures designed to streamline the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and strengthen the competitiveness of EU farmers. The initiative addresses key areas such as administrative burden, control mechanisms, policy implementation, crisis preparedness, and investment support for the agricultural sector.

To ease the burden of compliance checks, monitoring will be modernised through the increased use of satellite imagery and digital technologies. A new rule will also be introduced, limiting on-the-spot inspections to just one per farm each year. In addition, Member States will benefit from greater leeway when updating their CAP Strategic Plans. Only significant changes will require prior approval from the European Commission. This streamlined approach is expected to speed up the delivery of benefits to farmers on the ground. Access to funding will become simpler for small-scale farmers, who will now be able to apply for a one-off grant of up to €50,000 to strengthen the economic viability of their farms.

To further reduce red tape, national administrations will be encouraged to invest in interoperable digital systems. Following a "report once, use multiple times" model, the aim is to ensure that farmers only need to submit their data once via a unified platform, cutting administrative costs and improving efficiency in farm operations.

Next steps
Parliament and Member States will now amend and vote on the Commission’s proposal. Later this year, the Commission plans to introduce additional simplification proposals, including from non-agricultural policy areas.

Exposition
Louis-Jean Desprez Between worlds

17.05.2025 – 26.10.2025

Exposition
A New World.
Artistic and Societal Revolutions in the 18th Century

17.05.2025 – 16.04.2028