Last updated: 21 Mar 2012
Market profile
Doing business
Generally speaking the Finns, like other people of the Nordic countries, have a lot in common with Australians. They are straightforward, easy to get along with and are fond of nature and sports. Visitors from Australia will find themselves more at home in Finland than in many other countries.
More information on doing business in Finland
Country Profile
Content supplied by Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
- ECONOMIC CLIMATE
Although Finland’s economy has been more resilient than those of many other European countries to the euro area’s economic and debt crises, it experienced a real GDP contraction of 0.2 per cent in 2012.
» read more at DFAT
- TRADE RELATIONS
Total two-way merchandise trade between Australia and Finland in 2011-12 was A$1.24 billion (our 37th largest merchandise trade partner).
» read more at DFAT
- POLITICAL CLIMATE
The Republic of Finland is a parliamentary democracy with a republican constitution. The unicameral parliament (Eduskunta) has 200 members directly elected from 15 multi-member constituencies every four years.
» read more at DFAT
Top Business Risks
OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises
Multinational Enterprises should be aware of the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises that provide voluntary principles and standards for responsible business behaviour in a variety of areas, consistent with applicable domestic laws. These Guidelines are endorsed and promoted by the Australian Government. For more information, go to the AusNCP website.
Bilateral agreements
Australia has social security agreements with several countries that address the issue of 'double super coverage' for employees sent to work overseas. To take advantage of these agreements, Australian employers sending employees overseas to work must apply to the Tax Office for a Certificate of coverage.
For more details, please visit the Australian Taxation Office website.