Head of Section for Trade and Promotion at the Embassy of Sweden in Hanoi, Oscar Staffas Edström, holds the Business Climate Survey 2026 during its release on June 11. (Embassy of Sweden in Hanoi)
Business Sweden, in collaboration with the Embassy of Sweden in Vietnam, released the 2026 Business Climate Survey on June 11. The report shows a positive business climate in Vietnam, with Swedish companies remaining engaged and optimistic regarding future investment opportunities. The publication brought to the fore growing key sectors, namely healthcare services, infrastructure as well as both green and digital transformation.
For context, the Business Climate Survey is an annual assessment conducted by Team Sweden to help Swedish businesses evaluate opportunities and challenges when tapping into international markets. This year’s survey in Vietnam includes 33 respondents from Swedish firms ranging across various industries.
Results reveal that 50% of surveyed enterprises plan to expand their investments in 2026. This manifests a resilient appetite and underscores Vietnam’s position as one of Southeast Asia’s most promising investment destinations. Crucially, 67% of firms described the local business climate as “good” or “very good,” representing a massive jump from 46% in 2025.
Sweden’s Trade Commissioner to Vietnam, Marcus Persson, stated that “the survey confirms what we see on the ground: Swedish companies are taking a long-term, steady approach to Vietnam. There is a willingness to invest, but also a clear focus on building sustainable and locally anchored operations”.
As the survey also marks the strong reputation of Sweden businesses’ in Vietnam, with 81% agreeing that ‘Brand Sweden’ is beneficial, the Sweden Ambassador to Vietnam Johan Ndisi commented that “the long standing relationship between Sweden and Vietnam provides a strong foundation for deeper economic cooperation”.
He highlighted that Vietnam’s effort toward deep integration into global chains continues to attract foreign capital. He noted that Swedish companies “bring not only investment but also experience in sustainable solutions and innovation that support Vietnam’s continued development”.
What does this mean for business?
Vietnam’s standing as a premier Southeast Asian investment hub remains firm. Despite broader geopolitical headwinds, including Middle East disruptions that cooled global sentiment, Vietnam stands out for its exceptional momentum and economic resilience. Bolstered by a stunning 8.02% gross domestic product (GDP) growth in 2025, the market offers foreign enterprises a secure environment backed by robust supplier networks and rising local demand for sustainable, green industrial solutions.
Nevertheless, the report also identifies persistent bottlenecks that the local government could target for future reforms; specifically, streamlining customs procedures, simplifying licensing and permits as well as modernising the financial framework.
Kala Advisory helps investors turn openings like these into targeted, country-by-country entry plans across Southeast Asia. Visit kala-advisory.com.
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