Introduction to Autoliv Sweden Autoliv is the world’s leading manufacturer of automotive safety systems, headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden. The company specializes in airbags, seat belts, pedestrian protection systems, and other advanced safety solutions for major global automobile manufacturers. With over 70,000 employees in 27 countries, Autoliv is committed to developing safety technologies that reduce traffic accidents and save millions of lives each year. In 2023, Autoliv generated approximately $10.5 billion in revenue, maintaining its position as the leading supplier in the automotive safety sector.
Autoliv’s Strategic Expansion in Vietnam Autoliv’s airbag manufacturing plant, located in Song Khoai Industrial Park (Quang Ninh), is set to commence operations in November 2025, following more than two years of construction. This marks a significant milestone not only for Autoliv but also for the increasing investment trend of Nordic businesses in Vietnam.
The Autoliv Vietnam plant, with a total investment of $154 million, is being developed through Autoliv Vietnam Co., Ltd. The facility will specialize in producing automotive and other motor vehicle safety products, with an expected production capacity of around 10 million units per year, primarily for export.
Currently, the company is accelerating construction, equipment installation, and workforce training to prepare for production. The construction is scheduled for completion by February 2025.
On February 3, 2025, the Swedish Ambassador to Vietnam, Mr. Johan Ndisi, visited the Autoliv Vietnam plant and highly valued the company’s first investment in the country. He emphasized that this project is expected to generate approximately 2,000 jobs in Quang Ninh, reinforcing Vietnam’s role in the global supply chain.
Since January 2025, Autoliv Vietnam has been actively recruiting various positions, including beam cutting and joining workers, warehouse staff, warehouse supervisors, and sample room personnel, with immediate employment opportunities following the Lunar New Year holiday.
The Autoliv plant in Vietnam was initiated on July 10, 2023, spanning a 9-hectare area in Amata City Ha Long Industrial Park. INVESTCORP serves as the general contractor for the design and construction of the project.
The Nordic Investment Shift Towards Vietnam Vietnam is emerging as an attractive destination for Nordic enterprises due to its strategic location, abundant labor force, and competitive costs. In recent years, an increasing number of companies from Sweden, Denmark, Finland, and Norway have chosen Vietnam as a key manufacturing hub.
Several key factors driving this investment shift include:
- EVFTA Agreement: The EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) has significantly reduced tariffs, facilitating Nordic businesses in exporting from Vietnam to Europe.
- China +1 Strategy: Many Nordic companies are seeking additional manufacturing locations outside China to diversify their supply chains.
- Investment-friendly Policies: The Vietnamese government is actively improving the investment environment by offering tax incentives, administrative support, and developing industrial infrastructure.
- Sustainability Focus: Nordic enterprises are known for their commitment to sustainability and corporate responsibility. Vietnam’s commitment to emission reduction and renewable energy transition aligns well with the investment criteria of Nordic businesses.
Several major Nordic corporations, including LEGO, Orsted, Vestas, Tetra Pak, and Jotun, have been investing significantly in Vietnam.
Autoliv’s investment in Vietnam exemplifies the growing presence of Nordic businesses in the country. With strong support from both governments and an improving business environment, Vietnam can expect a surge in investments, particularly in manufacturing, high-tech industries, and renewable energy. This trend signals a positive outlook for Nordic capital inflows into Vietnam, further solidifying its position on the global manufacturing map.
(Vietnam Trade Office in Sweden, covering the Nordic countries)