Due to the strength of Sweden’s currency, its exports are perceived as too expensive to its trade partners causing a negative balance of trade. Official statistics published earlier this week show a deficit of 2.8 billion kronor as exports swelled by 15 per cent, but imports increased far more swiftly at 27 per cent. The increase in imports suggest that consumption has increased sharply as the economy continues to improve. This is the first time in years that Sweden has reported a trade deficit. Sweden saw its export income jump 12 per cent from January to August, while in the same period the cost of import increased by 18%. The increase in trade activity is good news for Sweden’s freight forwarding and shipping industry.