The economic expectations of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have remained largely unchanged since last autumn, but they show some improvement from a year ago. Lower inflation and interest rates have had a positive impact on companies’ outlook. According to the SME Barometer published on 11 February 2025, the challenging situation of companies in the retail sector is gradually easing.
The service process for jobseekers will be reformed to make it more customer-oriented and tailored to individual needs, in line with the Programme of Prime Minister Petteri Orpo’s Government. This requires amendments to the legislation concerning the service model and job applicant profiles.
Due to the problems encountered in the wild berry sector, foreign berry pickers will enter Finland as seasonal workers from now on. Following the change, it will be easier to monitor that the rights of pickers are protected and guarantee them a sufficient level of income.
In Finland, there is broad recognition of the important role that nuclear energy will also play in the future. There is a willingness to build new capacity, yet the profitability of investments has clearly weakened over the years. What different means could be considered to advance nuclear energy? This is what Director General Riku Huttunen ponders in his column.
The purpose of the EU directive is to improve working conditions and the protection of personal data for those engaged in platform work. New legislation will be required to implement the directive in Finland.
The responsibility for organising public employment services was transferred from the state’s employment and economic development offices to municipalities and municipal co-management areas on 1 January 2025.
The Sustainable Growth Programme boosts competitiveness, investment, research, development and innovation, as well as measures to raise skill levels. On our website you can find information on funding that the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment and the government agencies under its purview provide to companies, including calls for applications.
The sectoral low-carbon roadmaps prepared in 2020 will be updated in accordance with Prime Minister Orpo’s Government Programme. Roadmaps will pave the way for a low-carbon future.
The Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment creates the conditions for economically, socially and ecologically sustainable growth. It comes from skilled people in high-quality jobs, productivity growth and increasing employment.
The administrative branch of the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment comprises 23 government agencies subject to performance guidance. In addition, five companies and three off-budget State funds belong to the administrative branch.