Although many of the minerals extracted in Sweden are exported, the economic, technological and social value of mining remains largely within the country. Mining and exploration generate investments in Swedish infrastructure, research and innovation, and create thousands of jobs, especially in northern and rural regions. They also lead to knowledge and technology transfer, strengthening Sweden’s mining sector and its global competitiveness.
Foreign owned companies operating in Sweden pay Swedish corporate tax and contribute to both local and national economies. Mining activities also drive regional development, supporting communities through employment, housing, improved infrastructure and public services.
According to the Geological Survey of Sweden (SGU), Sweden’s attractiveness as a mining nation has grown significantly. In 2025, Sweden ranked among the top ten countries in the world for geological potential and investment conditions in the Fraser Institute’s global mining survey, a result highlighted by SGU as evidence of strong resource potential and stable regulations.
In short, even if the minerals leave Sweden, the jobs, innovation, tax income and business growth stay and benefit the country. As a leading European mining nation, Sweden is also essential to support increased European self-sufficiency of metals and minerals in compliance with the Critical Raw Materials ACT (CRMA).
Sources:
- SGU , “Sveriges attraktivitet som gruvland har ökat kraftigt”, https://www.sgu.se/om-sgu/nyheter/2025/augusti/sveriges-attraktivitet-som-gruvland-har-okat-kraftigt/
- Regeringskansliet,
“Rapport från Klimatoch näringslivsdepartementet Sveriges mineralstrategi.
För ett hållbart nyttjande av Sveriges mineraltillgångar som skapar tillväxt i hela landet”, https://www.regeringen.se/rapporter/2013/02/n2013.02 - Svemin, “Fakta om svensk gruvnäring”, https://www.svemin.se/