Thailand and Sweden are seeking to expand trade opportunities following a meeting between Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun and Swedish Ambassador Anna Hammargren.
Ms Suphajee said the talks on Friday focused on strengthening bilateral economic cooperation under the “Thailand-Sweden Strategic Partnership” and accelerating negotiations on a Thailand-EU free trade agreement (FTA).
Both sides highlighted growth potential in sectors such as innovative technology, telecommunications infrastructure, environmentally friendly products and Thai agricultural and processed food exports, particularly organic goods that appeal to health- and sustainability-conscious Swedish consumers.
Thailand has a trading relationship with Sweden going back 157 years, with more than 100 Swedish firms — including Saab, Volvo, Electrolux, Ikea, Ericsson and Purac — investing in the country, she said.
“The meeting underlined the potential for further investment and collaboration to leverage Thailand’s manufacturing capabilities and Sweden’s technological expertise,” Ms Suphajee said.
Bilateral trade in 2024 totalled $1.25 billion (about 40 billion baht). Thai exports were worth $507.7 million, including cosmetics, soaps, rubber, wheat products, automobiles and air-conditioning equipment. Imports from Sweden amounted to $737.7 million, primarily machinery, paper products, aircraft, medical devices and pulp.
