Sweden needs an ambitious technology policy to cope with future competitiveness, security and to transform into a sustainable society. This is what Vinnova writes in a report to the government and identifies six technology areas that should be prioritized.
Rapid technological development, geopolitical uncertainty, global competition and the need for a green transition make technology policy increasingly important.
The government has tasked Vinnova with proposing strategically important technologies that can strengthen Sweden's competitiveness and business investments in research and development.
Vinnova identifies six technology areas that should be prioritized:
- Artificial intelligence and autonomous systems for societal change
- Advanced digital technology for productivity and safety
- Quantum technology for security and industrial applications
- Energy technology for fossil-free electrification
- Material and production technology for conversion
- Biotechnology for health and climate change
Within each technology area, a combination of research investments, infrastructure for research and tests, developed conditions for start-up companies, collaboration between different actors and national funding is needed that can increase the effect of the EU's investments.
Global competition and geopolitical tensions are increasing and several countries in our surrounding world are making major investments in cutting-edge technology. This applies to the USA and China, but also countries such as Great Britain and the Netherlands. Sweden also needs to make purposeful and powerful investments in order for us to be competitive in the future, for our safety, our health and the possibilities of living within the planet's limits, says Darja Isaksson, director general of Vinnova.
Swedish areas of strength
The prioritization of technology areas is based on an analysis of Swedish areas of strength and future opportunities for Swedish competitiveness. During the process, views have been taken in from a large number of companies, trade associations, universities, researchers and other actors.
Active technology policy
Vinnova writes in the report that a strategic technology policy orientation is needed for Sweden. In the report, it is proposed that the analysis and priorities of technology areas be updated regularly and that the government initiate a function for steering and coordinating Sweden's technology policy.
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