Ministry of Rural Affairs and Infrastructure (Sweden)

The Ministry of Rural Affairs and Infrastructure (Landsbygds- och infrastrukturdepartementet) is a ministry within the Swedish Government responsible for policies concerning rural development, agriculture, forestry, fisheries, food supply, infrastructure, transport, and regional growth.

Its portfolio includes a wide range of issues crucial to the functioning of Swedish society, bridging the gap between urban centers and rural areas. The ministry is tasked with creating a sustainable and competitive countryside, fostering economic growth throughout the nation, and ensuring efficient and reliable infrastructure.

Key areas of responsibility and policy focus typically include:

• Rural Development: Promoting economic opportunities and quality of life in rural areas, including supporting rural businesses and communities.
• Agriculture and Food Supply: Ensuring a sustainable and competitive agricultural sector, promoting animal welfare, and maintaining food security. This includes oversight of regulations and subsidies relating to farming and food production.
• Forestry: Managing and protecting Sweden's forests, balancing economic interests with environmental concerns.
• Fisheries: Managing fish stocks sustainably and supporting the fishing industry.
• Infrastructure: Planning, developing, and maintaining transport infrastructure, including roads, railways, ports, and airports. This also includes promoting sustainable transport solutions.
• Regional Growth: Fostering balanced regional development and reducing disparities between different parts of Sweden.

The Minister for Rural Affairs and Infrastructure leads the ministry and represents it in the Government. The ministry collaborates with various agencies and stakeholders to implement its policies and achieve its goals. These agencies might include the Swedish Transport Administration (Trafikverket), the Swedish Board of Agriculture (Jordbruksverket), and other relevant government bodies.