2023 was marked by major challenges in the form of economic fluctuations and an increasingly uncertain global market. Despite this, the tech sector stands strong. It is a force for positive change and it contributes to Swedish competitiveness, to innovative solutions to cope with the climate transition and to the welfare of Sweden as a whole. It is also an industry that affects how each of us lives our lives. It is a position that places high demands on the industry as a whole and puts the spotlight on the industry's leadership and responsibility.

In TechSverige's report "The Swedish tech industry", it is clear that the tech industry is of increasing importance to the Swedish economy. The total turnover of tech companies now exceeds SEK 1,000 billion and the contribution to GDP in 2022 amounted to SEK 350 billion. The industry contributes tax revenues of more than SEK 150 billion, which is more than the government's total expenditure on defense and justice. The tech industry is growing, and the report "Skills needs in tech" shows that Sweden needs an additional 18,000 tech specialists per year until 2028.

At the same time, tech competition is increasing. Other countries are investing in new technology, such as AI and 5G, while at the same time investing in providing better conditions for the industry. If the tech industry in Sweden is to continue to develop and grow, Swedish tech policy must be sharpened and become more ambitious, while investments must increase. TechSverige therefore drives the industry's agenda every day and actively participates in debate and dialog with decision-makers. Our strength is that we speak with a unified tech voice. This is how we together influence and drive change that benefits you - our member companies - but also society at large.

Today, tech companies are some of Sweden's most attractive employers. Defending and developing that position is TechSverige's main focus as we now build the organization to stand on its own feet. On January 1, 2025, TechSverige will have its own employer service in place, tailored to the unique needs of our members.

With that, I would like to extend a big thank you to our eminent board, to our competent and growing team at TechSverige, to all our partners and above all to all our 1,400 fantastic member companies. It is together that we achieve success, for each tech company, for the entire industry and for Sweden.

Åsa Zetterberg
Director of the Association, TechSverige