Geopolitics impacts every company with international value chains – from access to critical raw material, via tariffs and other trade barriers, to market access hurdles and end-customer restrictions. Swedish companies doing business in or with China have experienced several of these pressures firsthand, but similar dynamics are increasingly visible across many markets. At the same time, geopolitics is not only about risks: new trade agreements and strategic industrial initiatives are also creating new opportunities. For many companies, the real challenge is staying on top of fast-moving developments and knowing how to navigate the growing geo‑turbulence.
Joakim Abeleen, Head of Geopolitical Advisory at Business Sweden, and former Trade Commissioner of Sweden to China, will share recent developments, reflect on company impact, and facilitate a discussion on how we can strengthen our geopolitical readiness. In a round-table format, we will jointly explore:
Joakim Abeleen is heading up Business Sweden’s global geopolitical advisory function, helping Swedish companies to navigate the prevailing geopolitical environment as well as facilitating sound investments to Sweden. He has previously led Business Sweden’s activities in the East Asia and Pacific region and served as Sweden’s Trade Commissioner to China, based in Beijing. With extensive experience in guiding companies through geopolitical considerations at both strategic and operational levels, Joakim brings a unique perspective to global business challenges.
Joakim’s background includes senior roles in management consulting, where he led the Strategy practice of a Big Four firm in the Nordics and was also part of its global Customer & Operations team. In addition, he spent nine years with the A.P. Møller Mærsk Group in transport and logistics, holding a range of commercial and operational leadership positions.
Having lived and worked in Asia for more than a decade, Joakim combines deep regional insights with global expertise. He holds a Master of Science in Industrial Management and Engineering, is a certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, and earned a Global Executive MBA from INSEAD.
Where? Näringslivets Hus, Storgatan 19, Stockholm.
When? Thursday, February 5, 2026, at 15:30 – 17:00 CET. Registration from 15:15.
Cost: SCTC Members Free of Charge. Non-Members SEK300 plus VAT. Please register below not later than February 2, 2026. Not a member yet – become a member here!
Bookings are closed for this event.