Swedish Opportunities

Swedish companies have an untapped opportunity to expand their presence in UN procurement, currently contributing only 0.34% of the total UN procurement value. In 2023, Sweden supplied approximately USD 85 million to the UN, with UNDP, UNICEF, and WHO as the top procurers. While around 900 Swedish suppliers are registered in the United Nations Global Marketplace (UNGM), significant potential remains to increase Sweden's role across key sectors such as healthcare, food and farming, construction, IT, and renewable energy.

Sweden’s strengths in sustainability, high-quality production, and innovative solutions position it well to meet the UN’s procurement needs. However, barriers like limited awareness of procurement processes and strong competition from other countries must be addressed. With targeted efforts, Swedish companies can enhance their competitiveness and unlock new opportunities to supply goods and services to the UN system.

What does Sweden supply to the UN?

Sweden is globally recognized for its innovative solutions and high-quality offerings, yet its contributions to UN procurement remain modest. In 2023, Swedish companies supplied approximately USD 85 million to the UN, representing 0.34% of the total procurement market. Ranked 63rd among supplier countries, this reflects untapped opportunities for Swedish businesses to grow their engagement with the UN system.

Currently, 29 UN organizations procure goods and services from Swedish suppliers. UNDP, UNICEF, and WHO are among the largest buyers, with UNDP accounting for a significant share of Sweden’s contributions in 2023. This foundation of trust and collaboration offers Swedish companies the chance to expand their reach across more agencies and procurement categories.

With approximately 900 Swedish suppliers already registered on the United Nations Global Marketplace (UNGM), there is substantial potential to increase both the range and volume of Swedish contributions. Key opportunities lie in areas like healthcare, IT, infrastructure, and sustainable solutions, where Sweden’s expertise aligns with UN priorities.

While competition is a natural part of international procurement, Swedish companies are well-positioned to succeed by leveraging their strengths in sustainability, innovation, and high-quality production. Engaging consistently, preparing strong bids, and building partnerships can help Swedish suppliers unlock the full potential of the UN procurement system.

High-Potential Sectors for Swedish Companies

  • Food and Farming: As the third-largest procurement category, the UN relies on agricultural products and food supplies. Sweden could provide high-quality agricultural inputs, sustainable fertilizers, and processed foods to agencies like WFP and FAO.
  • Construction, Engineering, and Science: Opportunities abound for Swedish companies to supply building materials, energy solutions (e.g., solar cells), and engineering services to UNOPS and other entities focusing on infrastructure in developing regions.
  • Media, IT, and Communications: The UN’s requirements for IT hardware, software, and telecommunications present opportunities for suppliers capable of delivering reliable and scalable solutions.
  • Motor Vehicles and Heavy Equipment: Swedish companies can tap into opportunities for supplying trucks and heavy equipment to UN agencies such as WFP and UNHCR.
  • Healthcare: There are opportunities for Swedish companies to supply pharmaceuticals, contraceptives, and vaccines as well as healthcare equipment particularly to UNFPA, UNDP and WHO.

Strengths of Swedish Offerings

Sweden is globally recognized for its emphasis on sustainability, quality, and innovation, aligning with the UN’s procurement principles:

  • Sustainability: Swedish suppliers lead in renewable energy solutions and environmentally responsible products, aligning with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
  • Reliability and Quality: High standards in production ensure the durability and efficiency of Swedish products, meeting the UN’s rigorous requirements.
  • Adaptability: Swedish companies have the expertise to provide tailored solutions, from logistics to technical services, suitable for diverse operational contexts.

Barriers

Despite its strengths, many Swedish companies face several challenges in expanding its UN procurement footprint:

  • Limited Information: In some cases, it is experienced as difficult to find relevant information about which UN organs that are the potential buyers.
  • Difficulties to get in touch: It may be a challenge to get connected with the right UN organ since the organization is very formal and at the same time as it relies on informal meetings.
  • Complicated process: If your company is not used to public procurement and tendering processes, the UN procurement process can be seen as complicated to understand and to navigate.

How Business Sweden Can Help

Business Sweden supports Swedish companies in navigating the complexities of UN procurement by offering:

  • Guidance: Insights into procurement procedures, registration on UN platforms like UNGM, and strategies for successful engagement.
  • Networking: Connections with relevant UN procurement officers and implementing partners to facilitate entry into procurement processes.
  • Training and workshops: Helping companies understand UN procurement processes, tender requirements, and bidding strategies.
  • Compliance: Assisting suppliers in aligning with UN standards, such as sustainability principles or ethical sourcing requirements.
  • Tailored Support: Offering sector-specific insights, such as what types of products and services are in demand and how to position offerings competitively.

Swedish companies are well-positioned to play a larger role in UN procurement, leveraging their strengths in sustainability, innovation, and high-quality production. From healthcare and food supplies to IT and renewable energy, the potential for Swedish suppliers spans numerous categories.

To access a detailed analysis of Swedish procurement opportunities in the UN system or receive personalized guidance, contact ask.denmark@business-sweden.se

Does your organization want to get involve? Read more here for practical steps forward.