Country Profile

Home to around 5.3 million people, Finland is a nordic country and 8th largest nation of world in respect of its area. It is the only nordic country which has adopted euro currency. the country is bordered with sweden on its west side, with russia on its eastern side and norway is situated on its north frontier. Finland is working under the political framework of democratic, parliamentary with central & local government in 415 municipalities. Finland was the province of sweden and become a free nation in 1917. The nation is vested with a total 338,145 sq km area which is divided into 304,473 sq km and 33,672 sq km land and water area respectively. The nation is bestowed with natural resources of copper, iron ore, timber, zinc, chromite etc. The country is successful in achieving 100% literacy rate in both female and male groups. It is the industrialized and free market economy with a $185.9 billion GDP. Service sector contributes 65.1% in GDP followed by industry 32.3% and agriculture 2.6%. The country shares good exporting relations with Sweden, Russia, UK, Germany, Netherlands and USA.

Snapshot

Economic Overview

• Finland has industrial oriented and free market economy.
• The country has embarked into export of hi tech items like mobile phones, computers, industrial automation, telecommunications equipment etc.
• Service sector is characterized as largest contributor in GDP followed by industry and agriculture.
• Finland is the world's largest producer of copper and other non ferrous metals.
• The country is the second largest exporter of paper and cardboard in throughout the world.

International Trade
Major Export Items
Paper & Pulp, Machinery & Equipment, Chemicals, Metals & Timber

Main Destinations of Exports
Russia, UK, USA, Netherlands, Sweden & Germany

Major Import Items
Textile Yarn & Fabrics, Grains, Foodstuffs, Petroleum & Petroleum Products

Main Origins of Imports
Denmark, People's Republic of China, UK, Germany, Russia, Sweden & Netherlands

Contacts of Trade Ministries/ Associations

Business Visa Rules
For getting business visa following documents are needed to submit:

• Complete and duly signed visa application.
• 1 passport size, recent photograph.
• Passport must be remain valid even after the 3 months of visa expiration.
• A letter by a company or an organization with whom you will be working in Finland or an invitation letter from your business partner residing in Finland.
• Documents conforming your airline reservations to and from Finland.
• A statement showing that you are able to incur all expenses which will be occurring during your stay in Finland lLike bank statement, credit card.
• Visa Fee.

Business Hours
Offices:   Monday to Friday from 08.00 - 16:15
Banks:    Monday to Friday from 09.15 - 16:15

Public Holidays