3 quick questions for Jan Larsson, CEO of Business Sweden on Asian growth and Sri Lanka as a business nation. Business Sweden helps Swedish companies to increase their global sales and international companies to invest and expand in Sweden. Jan Larsson has previously been Senior Vice President of Communications for the commercial banks Handelsbanken and Nordea, State Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office, and consultant at McKinsey & Co.
Much of the global trade growth is taking place in Asia. How is Business Sweden working to ensure that Swedish businesses are part of this growth?
It is well known that the largest population growth, urbanization and strongest economic growth in the world is taking place in the Indo-Pacific region. Sri Lanka is at its geographical center. Business Sweden works with this region in several ways based on the needs of Swedish companies. Among other things, by reaching out to small and medium-sized Swedish companies to show market potential and sourcing opportunities. The concept of “China +1” is becoming increasingly established, i.e. establishing production in more Asian countries than China to build increased resilience.
What is your view of Sri Lanka as a business nation?
It is an exciting country that has many fundamentals in place. Important elements are a strategic location, a well-organized state, and a well-educated workforce. The macro economy has stabilized, the country has signed several free trade agreements, and has a modern attitude towards sustainability. Now it is important that the country continues to work on its positioning; being an open economy, continue to have high ambitions, move with the times, engage in sustainable production, and further develop a progressive attitude towards education and healthcare.
Awareness is key in trade relations. How can Sri Lanka raise awareness in Sweden about its business community?
The eyes of the world are on Southeast Asia. It is important to stand out. Sri Lanka needs to refine its strategic competitive advantage and act on it. To increase awareness of Sri Lankan business, it is important to use the experience of Swedish companies, those who trade with Sri Lanka and those who have operations in the country. Team Sweden is also a resource. It is a network of authorities and companies that work together to promote Swedish exports and investments in Sweden. The network exists for both Swedish and Sri Lankan companies.
