The Swedish Forest Industries Federation expresses concern over newly imposed U.S. tariffs on pulp, paper, and board imports from the EU, which took effect on April 5 at 10% and are scheduled to double to 20% by April 2025. The federation emphasizes that free trade is critical to the Swedish forest industry, which is heavily export-oriented, with 5-10% of its exports directed to the United States. Europe remains its largest market, accounting for around 60%. The industry generates an annual export value of 185 billion kronor, significantly supporting Sweden's trade balance, job creation, and regional growth, according to the Swedish Forest Industries Federation.

The federation's CEO, Viveka Beckeman, highlights that the sector depends on international demand for fossil-free and renewable materials. While timber has been excluded from the latest round of tariffs, it remains under review in an ongoing U.S. investigation that may lead to import duties as early as November 2025. The industry, which employs approximately 140,000 people in Sweden either directly or indirectly, represents 9-12% of the country's industrial employment, export, turnover, and added value. Beckeman calls for carefully considered trade policy responses and confirms that the federation is in close contact with member companies, the Swedish government, and business stakeholders.