Market study: The Swedish market for processed food

In 2021, the Swedish food market was worth USD 32.3 billion. Because of its northern location, Sweden’s growing season is relatively short. The country relies on imports of foods. This market study aims at helping food exporters to get acquainted with the Swedish market.

Meat is the largest product category in the Swedish food market with 20 per cent share, followed by dairy products and eggs (17.3 per cent) and confectionery and snacks (13.6 per cent). The market increased by 14.8 per cent in 2021 compared to 2020. Between 2016 and 2021, the fastest growing category was Oils and Fats with 31 per cent increase, followed by Spreads and Sweeteners with 30 per cent increase, and Sauces and Spices with 27 per cent increase.

In 2021, total Swedish imports of agricultural and related products were USD 22.848 billion.The main food imports are products which are not produced in Sweden such as citrus fruit, nuts, coffee, tea, cocoa, spices and condiments, wine, oils and fats, chocolate and confectionary, cheese, and beverages, and also products that are only available during a part of the year. Producers and bottlers of fruit juices, and fruit and vegetables, also largely depend on imports.

Sweden trades for the most part with other European countries. According to World Integrated Trade Solutions, the top partner countries from which Sweden imports food products were Germany, Denmark, Netherlands, Italy and France in 2020. It is because countries such as the Netherlands are main entry points for raw materials into Europe.

This report also explains the Swedish food processing industry as well as trends such as organic production, plant–based foods, demand for healthy foods, sustainability, local growing, and innovation. You will also get tips on how to build business relationships.