The Philippines has emerged as the top market globally for planned Swedish investments, according to the 2026 Business Climate Survey, reflecting strong confidence among Swedish companies operating in the country despite ongoing economic and geopolitical challenges.
The survey, conducted between March and April and released by the Swedish government on Tuesday, found that 63 per cent of Swedish firms in the Philippines expect to increase their investment levels over the next 12 months. The Philippines ranked first among 41 surveyed markets, ahead of India and Vietnam.
Among the 38 companies surveyed, 21 per cent expect investment levels to remain unchanged, while only 8 per cent anticipate a reduction in investment. Some of the firms planning to decrease spending were consumer goods companies affected by weaker consumer demand.
According to the survey, the proportion of companies planning to increase investments represents an increase of almost 10 percentage points compared with the previous year, indicating a strengthening of business confidence in the Philippine market.
Business Sweden Associate Sophia Mauleon said the Philippines recorded the highest share of companies planning to expand investments among all countries included in the survey.
Profitability and Workforce Remain Key Strengths
The survey also highlighted improving financial performance among Swedish investments operating in the Philippines. Around two-thirds of respondents reported being profitable over the past year, an increase from 55 per cent in the previous survey.
Professional services companies were identified as being particularly well positioned to expand their investments following strong profitability in 2025.
Swedish firms also cited the Philippine workforce as one of the country’s most significant competitive advantages. Respondents pointed to strong English-language proficiency, a positive workplace culture and an ability to integrate effectively into international teams.
