Increased uncertainty globally – then Norrbotten's industrial transition will be crucial

The industrial transition in Norrbotten has become more challenging to implement. At the same time, it has taken on even greater strategic importance for Sweden and the EU. The report shows Industrial transformation in Norrbotten – for Swedish and European competitiveness and resilience“Norrbotten is uniquely positioned,” says Janus Brandin, regional development director at Region Norrbotten.

You can find the report here.

The report was produced by Polar Associates on behalf of Region Norrbotten. The picture that emerges in it is clear. In a situation of increased geopolitical unrest, customs conflicts and disrupted supply chains, the need for self-sufficiency in raw materials and energy has grown.

– As the world around us changes, industrial projects are becoming both more difficult to implement and more important than ever. Geopolitical unrest and trade barriers are challenging investments – but at the same time, the need for the very transition we are in the midst of is increasing, says Janus Brandin, Regional Development Director at Region Norrbotten.

Janus Brandin presented the conclusions of the industry report at Norra Scen during Almedalen Week on June 24. Photo: Freidon Mobaraki.

The EU is still dependent on imports of key raw materials. At the same time, weak economic conditions, high inflation and economic uncertainty make it more difficult to finance large industrial investments. Global competition, including from overcapacity in China, is putting pressure on European companies. More uncertain climate policy is also reducing the predictability of investments.

At the same time, development in Norrbotten holds great opportunity.

– Norrbotten is uniquely positioned, not only in Sweden but also in the EU. We have fossil-free energy, industrial expertise and large natural resources – and can thus contribute to strengthening Europe's self-sufficiency, says Janus Brandin.

“Invest in the future”

The industrial transition can strengthen competitiveness, climate change and security of supply in Sweden and the EU. But if the potential is to be harnessed, the state, regions, municipalities and the business community must act collectively and in a timely manner.

– This is not about grants, but about investing in the future – in new technology, smarter solutions and sustainable societies that strengthen both the climate and competitiveness, says Anders Öberg (S), chairman of the regional board of Region Norrbotten.

Anders Öberg participated in the panel discussion at Norra Scen where the new report was launched. Photo: Freidon Mobaraki

Today, several major industrial initiatives are underway in the county, linked to fossil-free production, hydrogen and critical raw materials. Despite the challenges, several of the industrial projects are continuing at a steady pace.

– What happens in Norrbotten is no longer something that lies in the future, but is here and now. Here, the conditions for Sweden's competitiveness are created through strategically important raw materials and industrial investments, says Anders Öberg.

High demands on social development

The investments provide new opportunities, but at the same time place high demands on social development. Energy supply, infrastructure and skills are crucial. The need for electricity is increasing rapidly, while transport is expected to grow significantly. Companies also need many new employees.

– The biggest challenge is the supply of skills, both for industry and for welfare. We are competing for the same workforce, which requires education, immigration and support at a national level, says Anders Öberg.

This requires immigration, more educational initiatives and attractive living environments with housing and services.

– We need to make it possible for people to move here. Without housing and functioning communities, it will be difficult to meet the needs of industry and develop the region at the pace required, says Anders Öberg.

Working methods also need to be developed. Permit processes often take a long time and the division of responsibilities is complex.

Receives support from the government

The government investigation Saying yes! from the Acceleration Office largely confirms the conclusions in the Norrbotten Region report. The investigation highlights, among other things, the need for faster processes, better coordination and a more balanced distribution of risks between the state and municipalities.

The national Arctic strategy reinforces this picture. It highlights northern Sweden as strategically important for both the economy, security and livelihoods. The strategy emphasizes that sustainable societies and functioning infrastructure are a prerequisite for development.

– We need to get better at telling what is actually happening in Norrbotten. Many people don't understand the extent of the investments and how they affect Sweden's future, says Anders Öberg.

The direction is clear. Norrbotten has a central role in Europe's industrial transition.

– To succeed, we need to join forces – industry, the public sector and the EU – so that investments in production, society and infrastructure keep pace, says Janus Brandin.