The main reasons for investing in Finland can be found in the country’s advanced technology, top professional expertise, excellent infrastructure and communications networks, coupled with a strong desire to be and to remain independent.  Many companies locating to Finland are also managing company business in the other Nordic countries, the Baltic region and Russia from here.  Finland offers a front row seat to a market of over 80 million people, according to “Invest in Finland”.

Invest in Finland is an expert service organisation promoting foreign direct investment in Finland. It’s funded by the Ministry of Employment and the Economy.  They claim that the key raison d'être behind the “why Finland?” question is as follows:

· Finland is the 4th most competitive economy in the world, according to the WEF Global Competitiveness Report 2011-2012.

· It is the least corrupt country in the world, Transparency International 2012 WEF Global Competitiveness Report 2011-2012.

· Finland is one of the innovation powerhouses in Europe, ranking 3^rd.

· Ranked 3rd in the Environmental Sustainability Index, WEF 2011-2012.

· Finland is rated number 1 in Education, Economist Intelligence Unit 2012

· Top in the OECD’s PISA study of learning skills among 15-year-olds, 2012

· Number three globally in R&D spending per capita

Behind the impressive numbers is a well-balanced and dynamic society, which is the perfect basis for a very positive business environment for local and non-Finnish companies and organizations alike. Today, foreign-owned companies account for more than 20% of corporate turnover in Finland, and their number is constantly growing.

Current Facts & Figures:

GDP (EUR bn) 196.6
Cost-of-living index 1 863(2012)
Inflation 2.8% (2012)
Population (millions) 5.3

For more information about domestic and foreign trade and Imports and exports, visit the following sites:

http://www.tulli.fi/en/finnish_customs/statistics/index.jsp
www.stat.fi/til/kau_en.html