SBBC Executive Lounge Seminar on Financial Support

On November 6, the Sweden Bangladesh Business Council hosted a highly successful seminar at Scandic Hotel No.53 in Stockholm. With around 25 participants, the event focused on financial support mechanisms available for companies engaging in Swedish-Bangladeshi business relations.

The evening began with an update from H.E. Ambassador of Bangladesh, Mr. Mehdi Hasan, on the current political climate in Bangladesh. He informed about the interim government led by Professor Yunus, which has gained substantial international support from over 200 global leaders, including U.S. President Joe Biden and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. This endorsement signals strong optimism for Bangladesh’s commitment to democratic reform, stability and crucial areas of national development including trade, governance and infrastructure.

Presentations by Key Institutions

• Emilia Hoflund, Exportkreditnämnden (EKN): Emilia presented how EKN supports Swedish exports by providing guarantees to reduce payment risk in international transactions. Highlights included EKN’s role in insuring loans, managing risks, and the steady financial position despite market challenges. EKN actively supports exports to Bangladesh, especially in telecom and transport, with a positive track record for repayment.
  
  
• Mikael Ramnö, Almi: Mikael explained Almi’s mission to bolster Swedish companies’ growth by providing financing and business development services. As a government-backed entity, Almi focuses on sustainable growth and complements the private market by taking on higher-risk projects that include export ventures, start-ups, and expansions.
  
  
• Camilla Lood, Swedfund: Camilla elaborated on their Project Accelerator, which grants support for project development with an emphasis on sustainable solutions. This includes infrastructure, green energy, and circular solutions, with tailored financing for projects in Bangladesh and other developing markets.
  
  The seminar underscored SBBC’s dedication to fostering bilateral trade and investment by informing members about available financial resources, risk management, and growth support, creating a strong foundation for sustainable business in Bangladesh.
  
  To views more pictures from the event click here >>