Title: The Swedish Tax Print Hinders Circular Economy in Electronics Industry, Say Experts
Date: July 10, 2023
Several representatives at SvD Debatt, a leading Swedish newspaper, have voiced their concerns about the negative impact of the chemical tax on the circular economy within the electronics industry. While they appreciate the domestic tax relief introduced on July 1, these experts are calling for the abolishment of the tax on imports of used electronics.
According to the writers, imports of used electronic products are necessary as the supply in the Swedish market is often insufficient. They argue that by eliminating the tax on imported used electronics, the government can pave the way for a truly circular and sustainable economy. This move would ensure a stable supply of recycled electronics, meeting the growing demand and allowing the circular economy to compete with the linear one. Additionally, they believe it would lead to job creation, driving welfare in the country.
The authors of the opinion piece include Henrik Nilsson, founder of the circular IT company Inrego, and Sebastian Holmström, Sustainability Manager at Inrego. Other notable contributors are Anders Wijkman, chairman of Climate-KIC and honorary chairman of the Club of Rome; Carl Dalhammar, docent at Lund University and researcher at Mistra REES; Carl Ghatan, CEO and Head of Sweden at TES; Elin Bergman, operational manager and vice chairman of Cradlenet; and Mattias Lindahl, professor of product-related environmental work at Linköping University and program director for Mistra REES.
These experts believe that by implementing the suggested changes, specifically eliminating the tax on imported used electronics, Sweden can prevent hindrances to the circular economy caused by the chemical tax. They argue that such a move will promote reuse and ensure a sustainable future.
This issue highlights the ongoing discussions and debates surrounding taxation on electronic products, particularly their impact on the circular economy. The Swedish government will need to consider these viewpoints and weigh the benefits against the potential challenges when formulating future policies related to the electronics industry and taxation.
It is yet to be seen how the government will respond to these recommendations, but it is clear that the Swedish tax print could have significant implications for the circular economy and overall sustainable development in the country.