Statistics Sweden reported that Sweden's economy grew in March 2026, signalling a short-term recovery following declines earlier in the year.
According to the latest GDP indicator, Sweden's gross domestic product increased by 1.9% in March compared with the previous month on a seasonally adjusted basis. The data suggests a rebound after weaker activity in January and February.
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"Activity in the Swedish economy increased in March after declines in January and February and is now back at a level similar to that at the end of last year," said Neda Shahbazi.
On an annual basis, calendar-adjusted GDP rose by 2.5% in March compared with the same month in 2025. For the first quarter as a whole, GDP was 1.6% higher than in the corresponding period last year.
However, quarter-on-quarter figures indicate a more subdued picture. GDP for the first quarter of 2026 was 0.2% lower than in the previous quarter, reflecting the weaker start to the year.
The GDP indicator, which provides an early estimate of economic activity, is based on preliminary data and combines both production and consumption measures before reconciliation. For March, initial estimates showed growth of 4.8% from the production side and 3.1% from the consumption side compared with the same month last year. After adjustment, this resulted in an overall growth rate of 4.0% before calendar effects and quarterly alignment.
For the full first quarter, the reconciled annual growth rate was 1.6%, based on production growth of 1.8% and consumption growth of 1.4%.
Statistics Sweden noted that March included one additional working day compared with the same month last year, while the quarter overall had the same number of working days as the previous year.
The agency emphasised that the GDP indicator is a preliminary measure and subject to revision as more complete data becomes available. Monthly figures are not classified as official statistics and are considered part of ongoing statistical development.
Looking ahead, the GDP indicator for April 2026 is scheduled for publication on 10 June, while the official quarterly national accounts for the first quarter will be released on 29 May.
The latest data points to a stabilisation in Sweden's economic activity after early-year volatility, though underlying quarterly growth remains modest.
More information:
Statistics Sweden
www.scb.se
