This map was compiled from different international sources such as EMODnet, EEA or Marine Regions. Information obtained from these sources was cross-checked with data from national sources. While compilation was carried out by the European MSP Platform, validation and quality assurance remain the responsibility of the primary data sources.
Basic facts on Marine Waters
Maritime Spatial Plan(s)
Status: Adopted
Sweden adopted its maritime spatial plan on 10 February 2022. Three national plans covering the territorial sea and the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) have been prepared: Skagerrak/Kattegat, Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Bothnia. The marine spatial plans include Sweden’s Economic Zone and the areas that are not included in properties in Swedish territorial seas from 1 nautical mile outside the baseline referred to in the Swedish Sea Territory and Maritime Zones Act.
Sweden's plans are available here (in English)
Latest MSP developments
Sweden is currently reviewing its maritime spatial plan to meet new electricity generation targets for offshore wind energy, and the creation of marine protected areas. Proposals shall be submitted to the Government by 31 December 2024.
The Baltic Sea consultation meeting was held on 20 December 2023. The Espoo transboundary consultation process was open until 20 February 2024. The national consultation (review of proposals) was conducted between 16 May – 30 August, 2024.
Next steps
The revision of the proposals for amendments to the MSP is ongoing. The proposals shall be submitted to the Government by 31 December 2024.
For more information please click here
MSP legislation
The Swedish Environmental Code (EC, 1998:808) and the Plan and Building Act (2010:900) constitute the legal basis for MSP in Sweden. According to the Environmental Code there shall be three marine spatial plans: Bothnian Bay, Baltic Sea, Western Waters (Skagerrak/Kattegatt) covering the area one nautical mile from the baseline seawards (incl. the EEZ). The plans, which shall be adopted by the Government, shall guide and contribute to sustainable development. The Government may, according to the legislation, adopt regulations prohibiting or limiting activities in the destined geographical areas.
The EU MSP Directive was transposed to national legistaltion through the Marine Spatial Planning Ordinance (2015:400), which contains provisions on geographical boundaries, the content of the marine spatial plans, the responsibility for preparation, consultation and cooperation in the proposal process, and monitoring and review. In parallel, the Plan and Building Act (PBL Act, 2010:900) regulates the responsibilities and mandate for the municipalities to plan land and water including the territorial sea.
National MSP authority
Sweden's competent authority for MSP is the Minstry of Climate and Enterprise
Contacts:
Ministry of Environment
Ms. Anna Ahlén
SE-103 33 Stockholm, Sweden
+46 (0)8 405 10 00
E-mail: anna.ahlen
regeringskansliet.se (anna[dot]ahlen[at]regeringskansliet[dot]se)
Web: www.regeringen.se
Swedish Agency for Marine and Water Management (SwAM)
Marine Spatial Planning
Mr. Per Olsson
Head of Division of Marine Spatial Planning
Box 11930, SE-404 39 Göteborg, Sweden
Tel: +46 (0)10-698 6907
E-mail: per.olssonhavochvatten.se (per[dot]olsson[at]havochvatten[dot]se)
For more information
For more information regarding the evolution of the MSP process in Sweden please see the dedicated country profile below