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In the first half of 2025, Poland will lead the Council of the European Union, focusing on key challenges like security, economic stability, and the energy transition. These priorities, we believe, align well with Scandinavian expertise in areas like green energy, innovation, and defense, presenting unique opportunities for collaboration and economic growth. Here’s how the Polish Presidency’s goals could connect with opportunities for Scandinavian countries.
1. Defense and Security
Poland’s focus on strengthening European defense and deepening cooperation with NATO. Roughly 10,000 U.S. troops stationed across the country cement Poland’s role as a cornerstone in NATO’s defense. Polish commitment shines through remarkable investment – 4,7% of GDP (for 2025) on defense surpasses NATO expectations and sets new standards for European security. This resonates with Scandinavian expertise in defense technologies and security solutions.
Opportunities:
- Scandinavian companies specializing in maritime and cyber defense.
- Defense manufacturers and SMEs can collaborate on dual-use technologies and EU-funded defense projects.
2. Protection for People and Borders
The Polish presidency aims to enhance border security and address migration challenges, including hybrid threats, international organized crime networks, terrorism and radicalization. Scandinavian countries, with their advanced border management, are well-positioned to support these goals.
Opportunities:
- Export of Scandinavian border technology solutions, including surveillance and security systems.
3. Resistance to Foreign Interference and Disinformation
Poland prioritizes building resilience against disinformation, cyber threats, and foreign interference. Scandinavian countries are recognized leaders in countering such threats through secure digital infrastructure.
Opportunities:
- Scandinavian tech companies can provide solutions for secure communication systems and disinformation detection.
- Cybersecurity firms can partner with EU efforts to protect critical infrastructure and digital systems.
4. Ensuring Security and Freedom for Business
Polish EU Presidency emphasizes reducing bureaucratic barriers, fostering innovation, and ensuring fair competition. This translates into a focus on business-friendly environments and technological innovation.
Opportunities:
- Expansion of Scandinavian startups and SMEs in digitalization, green technologies, and medtech.
- Collaboration on trade policy reforms to ensure fair global competition for EU businesses.
- Joint ventures in innovation hubs focused on climate tech, digital solutions, and industrial modernization.
5. Energy Transition
Poland seeks to strengthen the EU’s energy security while accelerating the transition to clean energy. Scandinavian countries are global leaders in renewable energy and sustainable technologies, making them ideal partners.
Opportunities:
- Expansion of Scandinavian expertise in offshore wind, solar, and energy storage solutions into Central and Eastern Europe.
- Joint projects to secure energy infrastructure, including cybersecurity for energy grids.
6. Competitive and Resilient Agriculture
Poland prioritizes ensuring food security and supporting sustainable agriculture, areas where Scandinavia’s agri-tech sector is a leader.
Opportunities:
- Scandinavian companies can export precision agriculture technologies and sustainable farming practices.
- Expansion of plant-based food solutions and circular farming models.
- Collaboration on EU policy frameworks to balance agricultural competitiveness with climate goals.
7. Health Security
Polish EU presidency highlights the need for digital health transformation, medicines security, and mental health support. Scandinavia’s advanced healthcare systems and focus on digitalization align with these goals.
Opportunities:
- Scandinavian medtech companies can lead the digital transformation of healthcare in Europe.
- Expansion of partnerships in mental health research, particularly for children and adolescents.
- Collaboration on diversifying pharmaceutical supply chains and strengthening EU production capabilities.
Swedish-Polish Partnership: A key role in the Polish EU Presidency
The recently signed (November 2024) bilateral cooperation agreement between Poland and Sweden will play an important role in achieving the goals of the Polish Presidency. This partnership focuses on defense, economic cooperation, and support for Ukraine.
Key elements include:
- High-level business summits: The first summit in Sweden (late 2025) and the following in Poland will spotlight clean energy and digitalization. These summits aim to boost economic competitiveness and facilitate cross-border business collaboration.
- Joint innovation efforts: Sweden and Poland will explore partnerships in research and industry, focusing on green, digital, and industrial development.
- Defense collaboration: Strategic defense projects, including air, land, space, and maritime domains, will deepen Swedish-Polish defense industrial cooperation.
- Knowledge sharing: Leveraging world-class research facilities (e.g., ESS, MAX IV, Solaris), both nations aim to foster innovation and technological breakthroughs.
This bilateral agreement not only strengthens Swedish-Polish ties but also provides a framework for wider Nordic cooperation within the EU, ensuring a stronger, more resilient Europe.
A chance for Scandinavia
Poland’s Presidency is a chance for Scandinavia to expand its influence and partnerships in Europe. From defense to green energy and innovation, these shared priorities can strengthen both regions and build a more secure, sustainable future.
Interested in opportunities in Poland? Contact Explore Markets to learn how Poland’s EU Presidency priorities align with your business goals!
