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.