Background & Purpose

Companies need better protection for crucial technical developments, such as blueprints and research results, against unauthorized sharing or leaking.

The Decision

The Swedish parliament approved the government's proposal, making the unauthorized exposure of technical trade secrets a punishable offense.

Does this affect you?

  • Employees with access to sensitive data: Must handle technical company secrets with strict care, as sharing them without permission becomes a criminal offense.
  • Swedish businesses and tech companies: Receive stronger legal protection against industrial espionage and the unauthorized leakage of valuable technical innovations.

In Practice

  • It becomes a criminal offense to unlawfully exploit or reveal technical trade secrets.
  • The new rules apply even if the person leaking the information initially had legitimate access through their employment.
  • Protected items include technical secrets such as blueprints, manufacturing processes, and research data.