Background & Purpose

To ensure that Sweden has enough food if a war or a major national crisis occurs, the government needs a system for storing essential goods. This is a step to strengthen Sweden's total defense and food security.

The Decision

The parliament approved a new law that allows the state to store food and essential supplies, ensuring they are available if a crisis hits.

Does this affect you?

  • Food producers and distributors: Companies in the food chain may be contracted by the state to manage and store emergency supplies on behalf of the government.
  • The general public: Citizens will have increased security knowing that the country has a plan to maintain food access during extreme national emergencies.

In Practice

  • The government decides which food products should be stored and in what quantities.
  • The state will own the stored goods, but private companies can be hired to manage the physical storage.
  • Strict confidentiality rules apply to those who handle information about the storage locations and quantities.
  • The stockpiles will be built up gradually over a longer period.