Past events

Date: Thursday, October 16, 2025
Time: 12.00 – 16.00
Venue: Dutch Embassy in Sweden
Götgatan 16A
104 65 Stockholm
Sweden 

Doing business in the Netherlands (Event in Stockholm)
– Informative event for companies established or planning to operate in the Netherlands

 

On October 16, 2025 we are joining the Dutch Chamber of Commerce in Stockholm for a joint event hosted by the Dutch Chamber of Commerce in Sweden, together with their members BDO, Eversheds Sutherland, Söderberg & Partners, and the Swedish Chamber of Commerce in the Netherlands, and the Netherlands Foreign Investment Agency (NFIA).

This event is designed for companies that already have, or are planning, operations in the Netherlands.

We will share practical insights and updates on:

  • Legal structure and compliance
  • Tax and social security
  • Employment law
  • Insurance, benefits, and pensions
  • Hiring costs and incentives

 

Programme

12.00 Registration and light lunch
12.40 Welcome by H.E. Ambassador of The Netherlands to Sweden Mr. Joost Reintjes
12.45 Short presentations by the Dutch Chamber of Commerce and the Swedish Chamber of Commerce
12.50 Presentations

  • NFIA – Support for your growth in the Netherlands
  • BDO – Tax and social security, Robin Schalekamp, Partner Tax & Legal, Global Employer Services
  • Eversheds Sutherland – Employment and pension law by Bas Dieleman, Principal Associate (Pensions)
  • Söderberg & Partners – Benefits and insurance by Ron van Overhagen, senior consultant international benefits

14.00 Panel and Q&A
14.30 Mingle and refreshments
16.00 End of programme

 

Speakers

 

 

 

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT:
DUTCH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE IN SWEDEN

 

 

     

 

 

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Navigating the Future of AI – Insights from the Swedish Chamber Tech Table Forum

On Thursday, October 2, 2025, the Swedish Chamber of Commerce hosted the Tech Table – AI Forum in collaboration with TK, bringing together leading professionals from the Swedish–Dutch business community.

As Artificial Intelligence continues to evolve at unprecedented speed, its impact on business, regulation, and innovation has never been more profound. This forum explored the opportunities and challenges AI presents — from the promise of generative technologies to the pressing questions around legal responsibility, ethics, and measurable business value.

Our expert speakers provided a multi-faceted view of the current AI landscape, highlighting both the potential and the pitfalls of this transformative technology. The key message: AI is not just about automation or algorithms — it’s about human insight, accountability, and creating real value across industries.


Key Findings

Lex Keukens & Nicky Willemsen – TeekensKarstens Advocaten

Focused on the legal dimensions of AI, with a particular emphasis on recent EU and US case law, as well as the LLMs4EU project defining the responsibilities and liabilities of AI providers. They discussed the emerging regulatory frameworks and the importance of compliance as AI becomes further embedded in business operations. Their key message: organisations must anticipate rather than react to the coming wave of AI legislation.


Colin Nugteren – Notilyze

Explored the current state of Generative AI (GenAI) and whether it will remain a cornerstone of innovation or fade as a passing hype. Nugteren emphasised that real progress depends on turning innovation into tangible business values, and the need for helping businesses and organisations with data analytics.


Alexander Ljungstrom – Einar & Partners

Presented the results of a recent MIT study showing that 95% of corporate AI investments have yet to yield returns. He examined why so many enterprises fail to achieve ROI and what separates the successful few. Through an ROI analysis of Agentic AI and GenAI, Ljungström urged companies to focus on practical integration, measurable outcomes, and continuous learning rather than hype-driven investment.


Alexander Wennerberg – Hives.co

Spoke about the crucial role of human intervention in the AI era. Wennerberg highlighted that true innovation emerges when AI is combined with human insight, emotion, and creativity — not replaced by it.


Highlights from the Event

  • Insights into the European Commission’s LLMs4EU initiative

  • Latest developments in AI innovation and industry applications

  • Panel discussions with distinguished keynote speakers

  • Networking opportunities with professionals and thought leaders shaping the AI future

 

Speakers list

 

 

 

This event was a collaboration between

 

               

 

See some images from Swedish Chamber Tech Table – AI Forum 2024: 

 

  

 

More photos at Past Events Tech Table AI Forum 2024.

 

ABOUT THE SWEDISH CHAMBER TECH TABLES

Tech Tables is a platform for Swedish-Dutch tech leaders, entrepreneurs, and investors to meet, learn, and discuss. At the Swedish Chamber Tech Tables, we aim to celebrate the latest in technology and discuss the latest trends, whether it’s artificial intelligence, blockchain, or virtual reality.

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Date: September 25, 2025
Time: 15.00-18.30
Venue: Svalner Atlas Group
Weteringschans 24
1017 SG Amsterdam

Managing Trade & Customs in Times of US – EU Tensions

 

On Thursday, September 25, 2025, we hosted an event in collaboration with Swedish Chamber Patron Member Svalner Atlas Advisors, bringing together experts from both Sweden and the Netherlands.

As geopolitical tensions and trade uncertainties between the US and EU continue to escalate, many European companies are facing growing pressure to adapt their tax and customs strategies. In this session, we explored how a strategic approach to customs, VAT, and transfer pricing can help multinational enterprises reduce risk, enhance supply chain performance, and seize competitive advantage.

 

From the implications of US tariff measures and evolving EU legislation to the intersection of environmental policy and customs procedures, our speakers provided practical guidance for navigating today’s fast-moving trade landscape. The key message: Trade compliance is no longer just about ticking boxes, it’s about empowering smarter, more resilient business decisions across the entire value chain.

 

Key findings:

 

Milad Samadi – Svalner Atlas Advisors (Customs & Trade Strategy)

  • Focused on navigating international border crossings through litigation, advisory, and policy advocacy.
  • Outlined the fast-changing global trade landscape, particularly the ongoing US–EU trade tensions and unpredictability of new tariffs.
  • Criticised the concept of baseline tariffs, highlighting that not all goods carry the same economic or societal value.
  • Explained the limitations of trade deficit statistics and how they often misrepresent the actual balance of economic exchange.
  • Discussed upcoming developments:
    • US–EU trade deal expected in November.
    • US Supreme Court ruling on the legality of certain trade measures.
  • Urged businesses to plan carefully, evaluate regularly, and avoid overreacting to short-term changes.
  • Mentioned the burden of EU legislation (over 13,000 acts), much of which affects trade through customs procedures.

 

Klara Käll – Svalner Atlas Advisors (VAT)

  • Provided insights into Value Added Tax (VAT) and its role in cross-border trade.
  • Explained that VAT is usually not a cost when handled correctly; it’s meant to be passed on to the end customer and reclaimed by businesses.
  • Emphasised the importance of:
    • Registering for VAT in advance when importing into different countries.
    • Ensuring all documentation is complete and timely to avoid delays and penalties.
  • Pointed out that
    • Proper planning prevents cash flow issues and avoids VAT becoming an unintended cost.

 

Petter Lohi – Svalner Atlas Advisors (Transfer Pricing)

  • Discussed the difference between transfer pricing and market pricing in the context of multinational groups.
  • Explained that pricing decisions are based on:
    • Functions, risks, and assets of each entity in the value chain (e.g., HQ vs. distributor).
    • Where value is created within the group.
  • Outlined different transfer pricing methods, noting that some align more closely with customs valuation than others.
  • Addressed the impact of tariffs on transfer pricing:
    • Companies may need to lower prices on goods to maintain profitability amid rising import taxes.

 

Speakers List:

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Date: September 18, 2025

Time: 18:30 – 21:00

Venue: The Swedish Chamber of Commerce
Fred. Roeskestraat 115
1076 EE Amsterdam

 

Mastering Leadership for the Future – Mindfulness and Work-Life Balance

 

On September 18, 2025, we held the fourth session of the Swedish Chamber and Young Professionals Mentorship Program 2025: Mastering Leadership for the Future – Mindfulness and Work-Life Balance.

 

We were delighted to welcome keynote speaker Cole Groom, Co-founder of Balance Breathing, who shared his expertise and guided us through practical breathing exercises. Together, we explored:

  • How mindfulness can support mental well-being and resilience
  • Strategies for balancing work and personal life
  • The role of culture in shaping healthier workplaces

 

The session also encouraged engaging discussions among mentors, mentees, and alumni, creating a space for reflection and shared insights.

Looking ahead, the Mentorship Program will conclude with its final session and evaluation on October 16, followed by a two-course dinner, hosted at the beautiful Pestana Hotel. We are very pleased to welcome Candida Snow, who will share her expertise on culture and business culture.

 

Keynote Speaker: Cole Groom, Co-founder of Balance Breathing

Cole Groom is the co-founder of Balance Breathing, helping teams reduce stress and prevent burnout through science-backed breathwork. Originally from the US, he moved to the Netherlands to study at the University of Amsterdam and went on to build a career in educational technology.

 

After discovering breathwork as a personal tool to manage stress, he founded Balance Breathing to make mental well-being simple and accessible at work. A former mentee in this program, Cole returns to share his journey and lead a session on the power of breathwork for focus and resilience.

 

 

 

About the Swedish Chamber Mentorship Programme
The Mentorship Program was launched in October 2012. Since then, more than 100 Young Professionals of the Swedish Chamber have followed the program and benefited from their future personal and professional growth. The many Mentors have benefited from meeting the new generation leaders of the future and learning more about their insights and values. The Mentorship Program is made possible by the Swedish Chamber of Commerce. Read more here

 

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Date: September 11, 2025
Time: 08.30 – 11.00
Venue: KPMG Meijburg & Co
Laan van Langerhuize 9
1186 DS Amstelveen

Turning Challenges into Opportunities: Can Europe Lead the Way in Diversity and Inclusion?

On Thursday September 11, 2025 we hosted a sold out Diversity and Tech Breakfast together with Swedish Chamber Patron Member KPMG Meijburg & Co. The topic was as follows: “As diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) face growing resistance globally, could this be Europe’s moment to lead by example? For the European tech sector, DEI is more than a moral imperative—it is a strategic advantage. Companies that embrace diverse talent and foster inclusive cultures consistently drive stronger innovation, outperform their competitors, and achieve higher financial returns”.

Welcome by Marlies Baijer, Partner KPMG Meijburg & Co, opening remarks by Yves Nys, Global Well-Being, Diversity, Inclusion Manager at SKF Group and introduction by Moderator Gabriele Hamm Adler, People and Business Developer at GHA Development.

 

Joerie Nijhuis, Co-founder of IT’S UP TO YOU

Presentation on simulation-based learning for organisational change

  • Message: “It’s not enough to talk about inclusion – you have to act it out”
  • Developed interactive simulations where employees/students face scenarios around bullying and harassment.”School bullies and bullies in an organisation have the same triggers. You can solve it with the same solution: engage in dialogue and decide which values to adhere to”
  • Goal: shift the silent majority to active defenders of values
  •  “Culture is about group norms”

 

Pernille Hagild, ED&I manager at Inter IKEA Group

Presentation on an inclusive IKEA

  • IKEA, 23 years in ED&I ,has achieved a 50/50 management balance between men and women
  • Iconic meatballs so every family member feels included. As a mirror to equality, you have to cater to all needs to reach ED&I goals. “Reflect the communities we serve”
  • Inclusion means: accessible homes, supplier minimum wage standards and respecting local cultures
  • “Diversity is a competence for growth”

 

Yves Nys, Global Well-Being, Diversity, and Inclusion Manager at SKF Group

Presentation on SKF’s global journey on DEI & wellbeing 

  • With a background in operations, he believes that the best teams are the most diverse
  • SKF links sustainability + wellbeing + DEI = embedded in the code of conduct
  • Before putting DEI in the code of conduct, did a risk assessment of political and economic risks
  • “Less friction, more progress”
  • SKF adapts wording of targets (gender-neutral) to stay compliant with US law, but will not walk back on values
  • “It makes us a better company”
  • “The values of Swedish companies…it’s a flag that I love to carry around the world”

 

Marlies Baijer, Partner KPMG Meijburg & Co

Presentation on diversity

  • US restrictions on DEI programs -> many companies retreat
  • Research proves diverse companies outperform peers
  • DEI = key factor in M&A
  • KPMG global continues DEI values despite the US withdrawal. “We act it instead of shouting from the rooftops”
  • “Women in Control” program to empower female entrepreneurs. The goal of 50% women is reached.
  • Local challenge: Dutch tax division not very diverse -> building inclusion through small-scale initiatives
  • “Companies with more equitable diversity outperform their peers”

 

Leon Kanters, Partner KPMG Meijburg & Co

Presentation on navigating the new US tariffs

  • Emphasised focusing on the 80% workforce, not just extremes
  • Tariffs: US policies disrupt global supply chains, companies need traceability down to small components
  • KPMG build a tariff modeller tool to help firms prepare
  • “During COVID, companies didn’t know where all their components came from. Today, you must know – traceability is survival”

 

The Swedish Chamber of Commerce Diversity is generously hosted by:

 

ABOUT THE SWEDISH CHAMBER DIVERSITY & INCLUSION BREAKFASTS
The Swedish Chamber of Commerce, together with its Diversity & Inclusion Committee, aim to provide a series of Diversity & Inclusion Breakfasts to discuss strategies with a focus on new perspectives of D&I, share real cases and research, and support you with concrete tools to increase and develop D&I within your organisation. For more information about the Swedish Chamber of Commerce D&I Program and the D&I Committee, here or send an email to events@swedishchamber.nl

 

ABOUT THE SWEDISH CHAMBER TECH TABLES
Tech Tables is a platform for Swedish-Dutch tech leaders, entrepreneurs, and investors to meet, learn, and discuss. At the Swedish Chamber Tech Tables, we aim to celebrate the latest advancements in technology and discuss the latest trends, including artificial intelligence, blockchain, and virtual reality. Click here to learn more about the Swedish Chamber Tech Tables series, or email events@swedishchamber.nl to hear more.

 

This Event is organised in collaboration with the Swedish Chamber of Commerce Tech and Diversity & Inclusion Committees.

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On June 16, 2025, Business Sweden and Swedish Chambers International (SCI) proudly launch the sixth consecutive Global Business Climate Survey—now covering a record-high 37 markets!

 

Join us to explore the latest insights into the experiences, challenges, and expectations of Swedish companies operating worldwide. Hosted at the Stockholm Chamber of Commerce, this year’s event holds greater significance than ever, reflecting the survey’s expanding global reach. Gain invaluable perspectives on economic trends, key success factors, local market conditions, and sustainability – while comparing results across markets and regions.

 

Based on insights from more than 2,000 employees at Swedish companies across 37 markets, the report serves as a valuable source of knowledge for how to succeed abroad.

 

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

 

Place: Hybrid event. Regeringsgatan 29, Stockholm and online

Secure your spot now – seats are limited!

 

Program

09.00–09.30 Registration and breakfast

09.30–09.50 Introduction speech
Benjamin Dousa, Minister for Foreign Trade and International Development Cooperation, Swedish Ministry for Foreign Affairs
Daniella Waldfogel, President, Swedish Chambers International (SCI)
Jan Larsson, CEO, Business Sweden

09.50–10.15 Presentation – Global Business Climate Survey
Lena Sellgren, Chief Economist, Business Sweden
Manuela Stierna, Senior Consultant, Business Sweden

10.15–10.55 Panel discussion moderated by Lena Sellgren, Chief Economist at Business Sweden
Company representatives to be confirmed

10.55–11.00 Summary and conclusion
Lena Sellgren, Chief Economist, Business Sweden
Jonas Lindström, Managing Director, Swedish Brazilian Chamber of Commerce

 

This event is free of charge. To register, press here!

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On June 5, Partinc, Patron Member of the Swedish Chamber of Commerce, proudly hosted the Chamber’s first Tech Table of the year: the M&A Forum.

Moderated by Kerstin Brodin, Innovation Manager at nlmtd, the event brought together thought leaders and experts to explore the current and future state of the European investment landscape, with a focus on M&A, software, cloud infrastructure, and growth equity.

A special thank you to our brilliant speakers:

  • Jan Sundelin, Partner at Partinc, compared the M&A landscape in Europe and the U.S., noting a narrowing gap outside of U.S. mega-cap SaaS companies. He also highlighted persistent challenges around regulation and exit environments.
  • Björn Håkansson, Business Development Manager at TNO, spoke on Europe’s push for cloud sovereignty, emphasising initiatives like IPCEI-CIS and Gaia-X, and the strategic importance of reducing reliance on U.S. tech infrastructure.
  • Ivy Chen, Private Equity Practice Lead at Software Improvement Group, shared insights on software due diligence, AI readiness, and the hidden risks in tech investments, stressing the need for a business-aligned, data-driven approach.
  • Sam Myhrman, Private Market Advisor (Nordics), highlighted Sweden’s rise as a hub for innovation, driven by a strong equity culture, robust policy support, and standout companies in AI and legal tech.

Thank you to everyone who joined us and contributed to the evening’s engaging dialogue. These conversations are key to driving real progress.

 

This Swedish Chamber Tech M&A Tech Forum was sponsored by:

 

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On May 28, 2025, the Swedish Chamber of Commerce held its 65th Anniversary hosted by Patron Member AKD, in their beautiful Amsterdam office, followed by the presentation of the Business Climate Survey 2025.

We would like to give a warm welcome to our new Board Members:
Mr. Ashkan Danaei, Sales Director, Tetra Pak Benelux
Mr. Ellis-Jan van den Hout, Managing Director, SKF Netherlands
Ms. Cindy Kroon, Chief Commercial Officer, Vattenfall Netherlands
Mr. Wiebe Schmitz, Country Manager, Saab Netherlands
Mr. Peter Magnusson, Managing Director, Scania Production Zwolle B.V.

 

 

 

 

We are also very proud to welcome Mr. Erik Thulin, Stena Line, for his second term.

 

 

 

Together with the current Board Members, they constitute the Board of the Swedish Chamber of Commerce as of May 28, 2025.

Mr. Bert Heikens, AKD
Mr. Eugene Grüter, Sweco
Mr. Fatih Noyan, Ericsson
Mr. Jan Sundelin, Partinc
Mr. Lawrence Masle, UP THERE, EVERYWHERE
Mr. Roland van Pooij, Handelsbanken
Ms. Kerstin Rolf Gerlagh, Swedish Chamber of Commerce
Ms. Armanda Willems, Lime Technology

 

 

At the Annual General Meeting, the Chairperson, Jan Sundelin, took the opportunity to thank the following retiring Board Members for their invaluable contribution and commitment to the Board of the Swedish Chamber of Commerce during their terms:

Mr. Herrik van der Gaag, Volvo Cars Netherlands, Ms. Ruth de Jager, Storytel, Mr. Wilko Klaassen, Klarna, Mr. Martijn Hagens, Vattenfall, Mr. Jan Terlouw, Saab Netherlands, Mr. Roderik Friend, Tetra Pak, Mr. Mark Verbakel, SKF, Ms. Carola Hoekstra, Stromma

 

Following the announcement by H.E. Ambassador of Sweden, Mr. Johannes Oljelund, that his term in the Netherlands will conclude this summer, Chairperson Jan Sundelin expressed a heartfelt appreciation to the Ambassador, on behalf of the Swedish Chamber of Commerce for his dedicated service as Honorary Chairperson, as well as for his invaluable support and generous collaboration throughout his tenure.

 

 

At the Annual General Meeting, the Annual Report 2025 was presented. We extend our gratitude to Nordholm Communication for their excellent collaboration on the design and layout. Our sincere thanks also go to the sponsors of the Swedish Chamber of Commerce Annual Review 2024:

Volvo Cars Netherlands, KPMG Meijburg & Co, Handelsbanken, Earth, Tetra Pak, and SKF.

Discover the full Annual Review by clicking here!

Order your hard copy by sending an email to info@swedishchamer.nl with your company name, name, and postal address.

       

       

 

The Swedish Chamber of Commerce Annual General Meeting and the Business Climate Survey 2025 was generously hosted by Swedish Chamber Patron Member:

 

 

Photo credits: Hanne Hansen Photography

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Patrons