Please note that due to the heat the event was cancelled. Is postponed to next year end of June (TBC).

If you are interested in golf events from the Swedish golf club please visit their homepage here. Their next golf tournament is on the 22 August 2026.

 

 

The Swedish Chamber is delighted to invite you to our Midsummer Golf Tournament, organised in collaboration with the Svenska Golfklubben in the Netherlands.

Join us for a wonderful summer afternoon of golf, networking, and Swedish midsummer spirit at the beautiful De Hoge Dijk golf course in Amsterdam. Whether you are an experienced golfer or curious to try the sport for the very first time, we warmly welcome you to participate.

As places are limited, registrations will be confirmed on a first-come, first-served basis. We therefore encourage you to reserve your spot as soon as possible.

 

Golf Tournament – Midsummer Open

Tee-off: Between 12:00–13:00
Format: 18-hole tournament in Poängbogey (Stableford) format
Prize Ceremony: Approximately 16:00, followed by drinks at own expense

The tournament will be played in the Poängbogey (Stableford) format, where players collect points on each hole based on their net score in relation to par. This format creates an enjoyable and inclusive competition where golfers of different levels can compete on equal terms.

The player with the highest total score at the end of the round will be crowned winner of the Midsummer Open. We will give out 1st, 2nd and 3rd prizes.

Participation fee: €85 (special Swe-Cham green fee)

Recommended for: Participants with golfing experience.

 

Fun Golf Clinic – Beginners Welcome

Curious about golf? Alongside the tournament, we are pleased to offer a fun and social Golf Clinic for beginners and less experienced players.

Led by professional golf instructors, the clinic will last approximately 1.5 hours and introduce participants to all aspects of the game in a relaxed and enjoyable environment. Equipment and instruction are included, and the session may conclude with a light-hearted team competition.

The clinic is designed for all levels, making it the perfect opportunity to try golf for the first time together with colleagues, friends, or fellow members.

Participation fee: €36
Experience required: None – beginners are very welcome.

Whether you are competing on the course or discovering golf for the very first time, we look forward to celebrating midsummer together with you for an enjoyable and sociable afternoon!

 

Registration close on June 23, 2026.

We explored the latest insights into the experiences, challenges, and expectations of Swedish companies operating across the globe. Hosted at the Stockholm Chamber of Commerce, this year’s event is particularly significant as the survey reaches its broadest global scope to date. We gained invaluable perspectives on economic trends, key success factors, local market conditions, and sustainability – while comparing results across markets and regions, providing a unique overview of the global business environment for Swedish companies.

Based on insights from more than 2,250 executives at Swedish companies worldwide, the report provides an important knowledge base for understanding how Swedish businesses succeed internationally.

The event was moderated by Lena Sellgren, Chief Economist at Business Sweden.

 

Agenda

09.00–09.30 Registration and breakfast

09.30–09.40 Introduction speech
Anna Brandt, Deputy Director General, Head of Department for Trade & Investment Promotion and Sustainable Business, Ministry for Foreign Affairs
Daniella Waldfogel, President, Swedish Chambers International (SCI)
Jan Larsson, CEO, Business Sweden

09.40–09.55 Presentation – Global Business Climate Survey
Lena Sellgren, Chief Economist, Business Sweden
Ida Ortega, Consultant, Business Sweden

09.55–10.25 Panel discussion moderated by Lena Sellgren
Company representatives to be confirmed

10.25–10.30 Summary and conclusion
Lena Sellgren, Chief Economist, Business Sweden
Jonas Lindström, Managing Director, Swedish Brazilian Chamber of Commerce

Date: June 9, 2026
Time: 16.00 – 18.30
Venue: Forvis Mazars Office, Delflandlaan 1, 1062 EA Amsterdam

 

We are delighted to invite you to an engaging and insightful event, presented by the Sustainability Committee and generously offered by Swedish Chamber Member Forvis Mazars, focused on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) topics.

 

Navigating the New Direction of ESG Reporting in the EU
What sustainability leaders and growing businesses need to know now

 

The European ESG reporting landscape is changing rapidly. With developments around the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), the EU Omnibus proposals and evolving expectations across value chains, many medium-sized businesses are asking the same question: what actually matters now — and what should we do next?

Our keynote speaker will be Paul Jaspers — an ESG and sustainability reporting specialist with extensive experience helping organisations navigate European sustainability regulation and translate reporting requirements into workable business practice. His expertise spans ESG implementation, CSRD, EU Taxonomy, sustainable finance and aligning financial and non-financial reporting into one coherent business story.

 

Program

16:00 Doors open. Registration and mingle
16:30 Opening words by Ashkan Danaei, Chair Sustainability Committee
16:35 Opening words by Martin Gurkan, Forvis Mazars
16:40 Introduction  Background and Latest developments ESG & CSRD
16:50 Keynote by Paul Jaspers, Forvis Mazars

17:10 Keynote by Pieter van den Herik, Capgemini

17:25 Keynote by Nina Kahn, Euroland IR

17:40 Q&A from the Audience

17:50 Conclusion by Ashkan Danaei, Tetra Pak
17:55 Thank you by Petra Zachrisson Beets, Swedish Chamber
18:00 Drinks & mingle
18:30 End of event

 

What you will take away

• A clear overview of the latest EU developments in ESG and sustainability reporting, including the social responsibility angle.
• How ESG reporting is moving beyond compliance into strategy, financing and stakeholder expectations
• What the evolving CSRD and Omnibus direction means in practice for medium and smaller businesses
• Practical lessons on where to focus first — governance, data, materiality and reporting readiness and the ESG-tool provided by Forvis Mazars for the Members of the Chamber.

 

This session is designed specifically for businesses that may not have large in-house sustainability teams but still need to understand changing expectations from customers, supply chains, investors and lenders.

Beyond the keynote, the event creates space for something equally valuable: learning directly from peers. Through discussion and shared experiences, member companies will have the opportunity to exchange approaches, compare challenges and discover practical solutions that others are already applying.

And of course, we invite you to stay afterwards for networking — an excellent opportunity to continue the conversation, strengthen connections across the membership and turn insights into action.

 

Preparation and Engagement

To make the most of this event, we encourage you to:

• Reflect on your organisation’s current ESG and supply chain practices, as well as any challenges or opportunities you’d like to explore.
• Come prepared with questions or topics you’d like to discuss during the sessions.
• Engage actively in the conversations and networking opportunities to maximise the value of your participation.

 

Registration closes on June 5, 2026.

On June 5, 2026, the Swedish Chamber of Commerce for the Netherlands held its Annual General Meeting, graciously hosted by EF Education First at their Amsterdam office.

During the meeting, members reviewed the Chamber’s activities and achievements throughout 2025, approved the Annual Report and Financial Statements, and looked ahead to an exciting year of continued growth and development.

We would like to give a warm welcome to our new Board Members:

• Ms. Lina Florwald, Alfa Laval
• Mr. Arthur van Es, Volvo Car
• Ms. Maartje Meijer, Sweco
• Mr. Mark Mulder, Stena Line

We are also pleased to congratulate the following Board Members on their reappointment:

• Mr. Bert Heikens, AKD
• Mr. Lawrence Masle, UP THERE, EVERYWHERE
• Ms. Armanda Willems, Lime Technologies
• Mr. Roland van Pooij, Handelsbanken

At the Annual General Meeting, Chairperson Jan Sundelin took the opportunity to thank the retiring Board Members for their valuable contributions and commitment to the Chamber:

• Mr. Erik Thulin, Stena Line
• Mr. Eugene Grüter, Sweco

The Chamber was also honoured to appoint Ms. Kerstin Gerlagh as an Honorary Member in recognition of her exceptional contribution to the organisation, including 21 years of dedicated service as Managing Director. The meeting expressed its sincere appreciation for her longstanding commitment and invaluable impact on the Swedish–Dutch business community.

During the presentation of the Chamber’s activities, members reflected on another successful year, including the organisation of 38 events, the continued growth of the Young Professionals network, the celebration of the Chamber’s 65th anniversary, and the successful execution of the Business Climate Survey in collaboration with Team Sweden.

Looking ahead, members approved the 2026 budget, which includes strategic investments in the Chamber’s digital infrastructure, including a new CRM system, to further strengthen member engagement and operational efficiency.

The Swedish Chamber of Commerce extends its sincere thanks to all members, Board Members, committee members, volunteers, and partners for their continued support and engagement. We look forward to another year of connecting, inspiring, and strengthening Swedish–Dutch business relations.

At the Annual General Meeting, the Annual Review 2025 was presented. We extend our sincere gratitude to Nordholm Communication for their excellent collaboration on the design and layout. We would also like to thank the sponsors of the Swedish Chamber of Commerce Annual Review 2025 for their valued support:

Handelsbanken, AstraZeneca, AllChiefs, Volvo Car, and SKF.

Discover the full Annual Review by clicking here.

If you would like to receive a hard copy, please send an email to info@swedishchamber.nl with your company name, your name, and your postal address.

For more pictures, please click here

 

The Minutes of the AGM will be sent to the members and published on the Member pages on our website.

 

 

The Launch of the Business Climate Survey 2026 – the Netherlands

We were very happy to welcome company representatives and members for the launch of the Business Climate Survey Netherlands 2026 last Friday at @Ef First Education.

Lieke de Jong, Country Manager at EF, shared how founder Bertil Hult started a small company in 1960 that has now grown into a language learning giant, operating 50 schools across more than 60 countries, teaching foreign languages and cultures to 4 million students, managed by 50,000 employees globally.

Colleague Eva Vlegels, General Manager Netherlands, EF Corporate Learning division addresses employee communication, talent mobility, and cross-border efficiency. EF has recently been named by Times as one of the 100 most influential company.

Before entering the Dutch results, Ambassador Liljeström welcomed us to this joint #TeamSwedenNL event and thanked all the companies who participated: “The BCS is very powerful tool. It helps us understand local conditions and how to give more tailored support”.

Lena Sellgren, Chief Economist and Head of Research, Business Sweden gave us an initiated Global Economic Outlook, where the risks caused by geopolitical tensions were identified as primary near-term risk by over 60% of companies surveyed.

Still, trade remains resilient despite challenges; most countries still apply WTO rules, though US and China operate outside this framework. But large risks for stagflation, especially if the Strait of Hormuz will be closed for a long time. Business Sweden will reveal all the data and a revised Global outlook on the 11 June 2026, to follow digitally.

Fredrik Nordquist, Business Sweden NL and Vincent van Roijen, the Swedish Chamber moved on to present the results of the Dutch BCS. Some highlights:

Netherlands Business Climate

• Netherlands ranks in top ten of 40+ markets surveyed; shows strong profitability above average but cautious investment plans
• 71% of respondents believe the Swedish brand positively contributes to both business development and employer branding.
• 73 % of Swedish companies expect their industry turnover to increase.
• The main challenges identified include the shortage of skilled labour, lengthy licensing and permitting procedures, grid congestion and regulatory complexity.

A lively panel discussion featured representatives from Frico and Scania, moderated by Tomas Korseman. The panellists confirmed that the survey findings closely reflect their own experiences.

Both companies pointed to geopolitical uncertainty and delayed customer investment decisions as factors affecting current market conditions, while emphasising that long-term investment plans remain in place. Electrification, digitalisation and innovation continue to drive strategic decisions, even during periods of uncertainty.

One of the dominant themes throughout the discussion was the persistent shortage of skilled labour. Both speakers described difficulties in recruiting qualified technical staff and mechanics, limiting their ability to expand despite strong market demand. The conversation also touched upon changing workforce expectations, the importance of attracting younger talent, and the responsibility companies have in creating supportive working environments.

The event concluded with a shared sense that, despite geopolitical uncertainty and structural challenges, Swedish companies in the Netherlands continue to demonstrate resilience and a willingness to invest for the future. While labour shortages and regulatory hurdles remain pressing concerns, collaboration, innovation and long-term thinking were identified as key ingredients for continued success.

To view the pictures, please press here. Photography by Hanne Hansen.

To read the Business Climate Survey, press here. 

Once again, thank you to EF Education First Amsterdam for hosting us, Oddbird for sponosoring the alcohol-free wine and to Selmas Nordic Bakery for providing us with cinnamonbuns and sandwhiches for lunch.

 

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Strategic Autonomy Through Innovation: Biotech & Life Sciences

29 May 2026 | Kadans Science, Partner Plus Ultra Leiden

On 29 May 2026, the Swedish Chamber of Commerce for the Netherlands joined Swedish Chamber Member IvCB Public Affairs & Stakeholdermanagement, hollandbio, the Netherlands British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC), Leiden Bio Science Park, and a coalition of international Chambers of Commerce in hosting a high-level sector event on the role of Biotech & Life Sciences innovation in strengthening the strategic and economic resilience of the Netherlands.

Held at Kadans Science, Partner Plus Ultra Leiden, the event brought together Members of Parliament, senior policymakers, industry leaders, investors, academics, and healthcare innovation experts to discuss how Europe can strengthen its position in an increasingly competitive global landscape.

Throughout the morning, keynote speakers and panel discussions explored three central themes:

• The meaning and importance of strategic autonomy in Biotech & Life Sciences
• Accelerating innovation through collaboration between industry, government, academia, and international partners
• Investment, market access, and the conditions required for long-term prosperity and competitiveness

The discussions highlighted both the opportunities and challenges facing the sector, including the need for faster innovation pathways, stronger cross-border collaboration, increased investment, and policies that enable Europe to remain globally competitive while delivering benefits to patients and society.

A key takeaway from the event was the importance of translating Europe’s scientific excellence and innovative capacity into concrete action. Participants emphasized that strengthening the Biotech & Life Sciences ecosystem is not only an economic priority, but also a strategic imperative for the Netherlands and Europe.

We thank all keynote speakers, panelists, partners, sponsors, and attendees for contributing to an insightful and forward-looking discussion. Their expertise and engagement helped create a valuable platform for dialogue on the future of Biotech & Life Sciences innovation.

Date: May 13, 2026
Time: 08.30 – 12.30
Venue: Pestana Hotel, Amsterdam

 

On May 13, the Swedish Chamber of Commerce hosted Building Ecosystems for Impact at the Pestana Hotel in Amsterdam — bringing together leaders and innovators from Sweden and the Netherlands across corporates, start-ups, academia, government, and investment communities.

The event explored how cross-sector collaboration can strengthen innovation, resilience, and long-term competitiveness within areas such as AI, energy transition, defence, and sustainable urban development.

Throughout the morning, speakers and participants emphasised the importance of trust, openness, and public-private collaboration as the foundation for successful innovation ecosystems. Several discussions highlighted that impactful ecosystems are not created by structures alone, but by people, relationships, and shared ambition.

 

Photo credits: Jules Pruijn | Scroll down to see all event pictures!

 

The programme featured keynote reflections from:

• H.E. Mr. Julius Liljeström, Ambassador of Sweden to the Netherlands
• Frank Berkers, TNO
• Jessica Peters Hondelink, Amsterdam Economic Board
• Ola Ahlvarsson, Epicenter

Among the key themes discussed were:

• The importance of long-term thinking and ecosystem orchestration
• How Sweden and the Netherlands can strengthen collaboration as complementary innovation partners
• Europe’s opportunities and challenges in scaling innovation and retaining talent and capital
• Human-centered innovation and the future role of AI in society and business

 

Several memorable reflections captured the spirit of the event:

“Ecosystems do not create impact, people do.” – Frank Berkers, Senior Scientist – Strategic Business Analysis at TNO

“Trust has been the foundation of Swedish-Dutch collaboration for centuries.” – Jessica Peters-Hondelink, CEO Amsterdam Economic Board

“Be part of something bigger than yourself.” – Ola Ahlvarsson, CEO Result, Co-Founder Epicenter

 

The event concluded with engaging discussions and networking sessions, reinforcing the importance of continued Swedish-Dutch collaboration to build resilient ecosystems for the future.

We would like to thank all speakers, partners, moderators, and participants for contributing to an inspiring and insightful morning in Amsterdam.

 

Breakout Sessions:

Building Ecosystems to Accelerate the Energy Transition

o   Hosted by Frank Berkers (TNO), Kerstin Brodin (nlmtd) and Paul Kunneman (Project Enki)

o   What does it take to build an innovation ecosystem in six months? AI & Energy start-up Project Enki did exactly that, uniting Dutch, Swedish and Belgian companies around shared goals of sovereignty, sustainability and speed. Together, they are now realizing AI datacenters in the North Sea, powered by renewable energy at the source. Dive into the case study with us and leave with clear next steps for building your own innovation ecosystem.

 

Knowledge Exchange Between Nordics & the Netherlands on Building Resilient Ecosystems for Defence

o   Hosted by Mirjam Ros (nlmtd), co-hosted by Annebelle Waldus (nlmtd) & Karl-Johan Ladekvist (BAE Systems Bofors)

o   Join this interactive breakout session to explore key success factors, exchange insights with Nordic and Dutch experts, and align across stakeholders—from Defence to industry, technology institutes, regional development agencies, and investors. Together, we’ll tackle the opportunities and challenges of accelerating innovation and strengthening strategic autonomy. Be part of the conversation and help shape the future of defence ecosystems.

 

Building Ecosystems for Futureproof AI

o   Hosted by Nicholas Morgan (nlmtd), co-hosted by Karen van der Zanden (TNO) & and Lotte de Groen (TNO Vector)

o   In January, nlmtd kickstarted the futureproof AI challenge together with 17 knowledge institutes and ecosystem players. The focus: how to build bridges to solve common AI challenges in sustainability, sovereignty and return on investment. In this breakout, we’ll share best practices, new insights and start building new bridges. Dream big, start small and let’s build together.

 

Building Ecosystems for Resilient, Sustainable & Livable Cities

o   Hosted by Sandra van der Pal (nlmtd), co-hosted by Adrian McDonald (Epicenter)

o   Why do urban ecosystems so often stall—and what does it take to make them work? In this interactive session, nlmtd and Epicenter share practical lessons from building real-world urban ecosystems across sectors and borders. Through conversation, reflection and participants’ own experiences, we explore how cities can move from collaboration in name to collaboration that delivers impact.

Exclusive Members Preview: The New Volvo EX60

23 April 2026 | Volvo Car Nederland, Beesd

On Thursday morning, 23 April 2026, members of the Swedish Chamber were invited to a truly exclusive first look at the all-new Volvo EX60 at Volvo Car Nederland in Beesd.

As one of the very first vehicles to leave the factory in Göteborg, the EX60 made its first stop on a European preview tour with this special members-only event. Ahead of its production launch in summer 2026, guests had the unique opportunity to be among the first to experience the design, innovation, and premium feel of Volvo’s newest all-electric mid-size SUV.

Following breakfast and networking, guests were welcomed by Arthur van Es, Consumer Experience Director at Volvo Car, before an introductory video unveiled the vision behind the EX60. Bas Wolke, Product Manager at Volvo Car, then presented an exclusive preview and in-depth introduction to the model.

The new EX60, built under the theme “Born Electric”, represents the next step in Volvo’s evolution: a fully electric premium SUV with an impressive range of up to 810 km, ultra-fast 800-volt charging, advanced safety innovations, and a spacious, technology-driven interior. Featuring Volvo’s latest Google-based infotainment system, AI-powered voice commands, and innovative engineering technologies such as mega-casting and cell-to-body construction, the EX60 is designed to redefine efficiency, comfort, and safety.

The morning concluded with remarks by Petra Zachrisson Beets, CEO of the Swedish Chamber, followed by networking and discussions among members.

New, 100% Swedish, and embodying everything Volvo has stood for since 1927, the EX60 is more than a car — it is a promise for the future of mobility.

Stationsweg 2, 4153 RD Beesd

Stationsweg 2, 4153 RD Beesd