| | Swe-Cham News Feed | January 19, 2026 | | | | | |
From Grey to Green: Europe's Power Production Transformation
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European electricity production is becoming increasingly sustainable. In 2025, wind turbines and solar panels generated more electricity in Europe than oil, coal, and gas for the first time, marking a historic shift towards clean energy.
Almost half of Europe’s electricity last year came from renewable sources, led by wind and solar power. Together, they surpassed fossil fuels such as gas and coal, while the remaining electricity was mainly produced by nuclear energy and hydropower. | | | | | | | | Swedish Chamber Member EF: Proficiency Index 2025 |
The 2025 EF English Proficiency Index, covering 123 countries, reveals persistent global differences in English skills. The Netherlands tops the ranking, followed by Croatia and Austria, while Germany posts one of Europe’s largest gains. Sweden continues to demonstrate strong English skills, securing 8th place globally and remaining among the world’s top-performing countries. | |
Swedish Chamber Member Noviflora: CEO Hendrico de Brabander steps down |
After careful consideration, Hendrico de Brabander has decided to step down as CEO of Noviflora.
Xander van Reisen, a second-generation family member and current Chief Commercial Officer (CCO), will take over as CEO effective 1 April 2026.
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Government launches Made with Sweden initiative – a concerted push for free trade and global collaboration
| | | | In December, the Government launched Made with Sweden, an initiative to boost Swedish exports, attract investment, and strengthen international cooperation amid rising protectionism.
To support the initiative, the Government has tasked the Swedish Institute, Business Sweden, Sida, the Swedish Export Credit Agency, and the National Board of Trade, with Sweden’s missions abroad prioritising Made with Sweden in the coming years. The Chamber is discussing with the Embassy of Sweden and Business Sweden how we can develop this concept further for the Netherlands.
“We want to attract investment to Sweden. But we also want Swedish companies to invest abroad. We want production from foreign companies in Sweden, as well as Swedish production overseas. We want the world’s talents here – but we also want our young people to discover the world and our researchers to collaborate with the best research institutes in the world. We want our goods on their shelves, and their goods on ours. In a world that is turning inwards, Sweden is standing up for openness” - Benjamin Dousa, Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade | | | | | | | |
Swedish Chamber Member Svalner Atlas Advisors:New Office
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Svalner Atlas Advisors has relocated to a new office as of 1 January.
The Swedish Chamber extends its warmest congratulations on the new space and wishes the team continued success and growth in this exciting next chapter!
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Swedish Chamber Member: Sweco Emphasises the Importance of Local Challenges for the Future of the Netherlands
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At a time when the Netherlands faces major spatial and social challenges, architectural and engineering consultancy Sweco is taking a new direction in the country with its brand strategy, "Every Piece Counts." | | | | | | | | | | | |
Norrsken Opening in Amsterdam in 2026
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Norrsken House Amsterdam will open in 2026 as a new co-working space and members’ club located in the historic Van Gendt Hallen.
Norrsken is a global impact-focused organisation that supports entrepreneurs and innovators working to solve the world’s most pressing challenges. Designed from the ground up, Norrsken House Amsterdam will provide a collaborative environment for founders, funders, thinkers, doers, and dreamers committed to building solutions for a better future. The space will bring together businesses that matter and individuals dedicated to making a difference.
We are excited to welcome Norrsken to Amsterdam and look forward to future collaboration! | | | | | | | |
Swedish clothing store GinaTricot expanding to the dutch market
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Gina Tricot continues its international growth with entry into the Dutch market.
The Swedish fashion retailer will open its first store in the Netherlands on Kalverstraat in Amsterdam, one of Europe’s most prominent shopping streets. The opening is scheduled for March 2026.
The Swedish Chamber warmly welcomes GinaTricot to the Netherlands!
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Swedish/Norwegian Ida Lerner appointed CFO at ING
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ING has announced that Ida Lerner, a Swedish-Norwegian executive and former CFO of Norwegian bank DNB, will be appointed as its next Chief Financial Officer.
She will succeed Tanate Phutrakul, who is set to step down at ING’s annual general meeting in April 2026, as announced in July 2025.
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BUSINESS CLIMATE SURVEY 2026
| | | | In early February 2026, Swedish companies operating in the Netherlands will be invited to participate in the annual Business Climate Survey. The survey collects valuable insights on how Swedish businesses perceive the Dutch market, including opportunities, challenges, and overall business conditions. Now entering its sixth year in the Netherlands, the Business Climate Survey is part of a global Team Sweden initiative covering more than 40 markets worldwide. The findings form the basis for the Business Climate Survey 2026 report, which will be launched later in the spring and used to strengthen advocacy, strategic support, and the global positioning of Swedish companies.
Why should you participate? By contributing, your company will: - Gain insights into how other Swedish firms perceive the Dutch market.
- Benchmark your experiences against 44 other markets and past years.
- Leverage results to create valuable content around your brand.
- Help Team Sweden Netherlands tailor its support to your business needs.
Your contribution is essential in ensuring that Team Sweden Netherlands can continue to deliver relevant, well-informed support tailored to the needs of Swedish businesses in the Dutch market, keep an eye out in your email inbox! | | | | | | Follow us on social media to stay updated on Swedish-Dutch business relations! | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
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