Published on
October 2, 2025
Sweden’s national infrastructure authority, Trafikverket, has unveiled a draft transport infrastructure plan that outlines its investment strategies for the years 2026 to 2037. Submitted to the government on September 30, the proposed plan represents a significant commitment to transforming the country’s transportation landscape. With a proposed investment of SKr 1.2 trillion ($128.87 billion), the plan aims to improve Sweden’s commuter services, enhance business competitiveness, and strengthen national defense.
Investment in Rail Infrastructure
A cornerstone of the proposed infrastructure plan is a robust focus on Sweden’s rail network, which will receive an estimated SKr 500 billion in funding. This investment is part of a broader effort to tackle Sweden’s considerable backlog in rail maintenance. The country has faced delays in addressing necessary upgrades, and the plan aims to resolve these issues by 2050. The maintenance schedule is designed to ensure that rail services remain operational while improvements are underway, minimizing disruptions for passengers.
The Swedish government recognizes the importance of rail transport in driving the country’s economic development and improving connectivity, particularly between major cities and regions. The new investments are intended to make Sweden’s rail system more efficient, reliable, and capable of handling future demand, ensuring that it continues to play a key role in the country’s sustainable transport strategy.
Accelerating the Implementation of ERTMS
Another major element of the infrastructure plan is the acceleration of the rollout of the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS), a technological upgrade designed to enhance the safety, capacity, and efficiency of rail networks. ERTMS is considered the future of rail signaling and control systems, and by 2042, Sweden aims to have it implemented across all major traffic lines.
For the first time, the government has also committed to providing funding for the installation of onboard equipment necessary to support ERTMS on trains. This funding will be crucial for modernizing Sweden’s fleet of trains, ensuring that the country’s rail system remains competitive and future-proof.
Key Rail Projects in the Plan
The draft infrastructure plan includes several major rail projects that are set to improve capacity and connectivity across the Swedish rail network. Some of the most notable projects include:
- Stockholm to Linköping (Ostlänken): This high-speed rail project will create a direct link between Sweden’s capital, Stockholm, and Linköping, one of the country’s most important regional cities. The project aims to reduce travel times and improve access to the Östergötland region.
- Lund to Hässleholm: This rail corridor is designed to enhance connectivity between southern Sweden’s major cities, improving the flow of both passengers and goods. The improvements will support the region’s growing economy and provide better access for travelers.
- Gothenburg to Borås: A vital link in western Sweden, this project aims to boost capacity between Gothenburg, Sweden’s second-largest city, and Borås. By enhancing rail capacity along this route, the project will support the region’s industrial growth and provide an alternative to road transport.
- Norrbotten Line (Umeå to Luleå): Located in northern Sweden, the Norrbotten Line is a crucial connection between Umeå and Luleå. The proposed improvements to this line are intended to support the growing demand for freight and passenger services in Sweden’s northern regions.
In addition to these major projects, the plan also includes capacity enhancements on the Ore Line and improvements at Luleå station, which will help facilitate more efficient travel in Sweden’s northernmost areas.
Long-Term Goals for Sweden’s Rail System
The Swedish government’s long-term goal is to create a modern, high-capacity rail network that serves both urban and rural areas, reduces travel times, and enhances economic opportunities across the country. With the combination of maintenance upgrades, new projects, and technological advancements such as ERTMS, Sweden is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable transportation.
Roberto Maiorana, the director general of Trafikverket, stressed the importance of the plan, calling it a historic investment that will shape Sweden’s rail system for decades to come. He emphasized that the plan provides an opportunity to comprehensively invest in the country’s railways, enhancing both capacity and efficiency while ensuring that Sweden’s transportation infrastructure is prepared for future challenges.
Implications for Swedish Tourism and Business
The proposed investments in the rail network are not just about improving transport efficiency—they will also have a direct impact on Sweden’s tourism and business sectors. Better rail services will make it easier for tourists to visit different parts of the country, from bustling cities to remote natural wonders. Additionally, the improved transport links will facilitate business travel, helping to connect companies, industries, and markets more efficiently.
By making rail travel more competitive and reliable, the plan will help Sweden maintain its position as one of the world’s top destinations for both leisure and business travelers.
