TechSweden's chief economist: The future requires investment in innovation, entrepreneurship and growth
The Government's spring amending budget is presented in a still challenging economic situation. Sweden is facing a changing and uncertain external environment that is likely to dampen growth, making it more important than ever to invest in strengthening competitiveness and resilience. Investments in tech and digitalization play a crucial role here, says Christina Ramm-Ericson, Chief Economist at TechSverige.
- We welcome the fact that the government is highlighting the need to increase growth, productivity and strengthen defense, but lacks a clearer overall approach that fully utilizes the potential of tech and digitization - crucial tools for solving major societal challenges and strengthening economic development, says Christina Ramm-Ericson, Chief Economist at TechSverige.
The spring amending budget contains several elements in which TechSverige and its member companies have been a driving force - including initiatives to drive the development and use of AI. The Prime Minister highlighted these in a debate article in Dagens Industri on 14 April, where he mentioned, among other things, the "regulatory sandbox" at IMY, an AI workshop in the public sector, stronger work against disinformation and investments in AI linked to defense. TechSverige shares the Prime Minister's view - it really is high time to discuss Sweden's role in the future technology landscape. The fact that this is being raised shows an increased understanding and is an important signal, but more is needed if Sweden is to keep up with the global tech race.
- "The Prime Minister is showing leadership and commitment to the AI issue. This is welcome and necessary, but now more ministers need to step forward and start delivering on the crucial AI issues," says Christina Ramm-Ericson.
Ahead of the autumn budget bill, TechSverige calls on the government to prioritize efforts that create better conditions for innovation, tech entrepreneurship and growth. It is time to start ticking off the AI Commission's list of 75 proposals by appointing an "AI task force" and quickly implement measures that strengthen AI and the entire digital development in Sweden. This requires, for example, a focus on regulatory simplification and a focus on raising the level and breadth of skills.
- Sweden has good conditions and a strong tech industry. Now we need bold decisions that allow us to take advantage of the full potential of the digital transition," says Christina Ramm-Ericson.
Read TechSverige's in-depth analysis of the budget here