Finnish food industry companies are being offered new business opportunities within NATO’s global procurement system. The initiative is being led by the Finnish Food Export Association SUVI ry, in cooperation with the Finnish Food and Drink Industries’ Federation and Finnish Operations Center Oy (FOC).
Companies will receive information on how to access NATO’s procurement chain and how to obtain a company-specific procurement ID at an event held on September 2, 2025, at the Tampere Exhibition and Sports Centre. At the event, food companies will be introduced to NATO’s requirements and procurement processes. The event is open to all Finnish food industry companies interested in becoming part of NATO’s global network and is organized by the VIKE project, which promotes cooperation among export companies.
“Our goal is to build a smooth pathway that integrates Finnish products into NATO’s global network. The success of Finnish food production also supports our national security of supply,” says Jarmo Talasrinne, Executive Director of SUVI ry.
The Strengths of Finnish Food: Purity, Quality, and Expertise
Finnish food production is internationally recognized for its high quality and environmentally friendly production methods. These qualities make Finnish products highly valued on the global market. Finnish companies are able to offer high-quality goods with full traceability – both crucial attributes in international trade.
“Thanks to this combination, Finnish food companies are well positioned to become key players in the global market,” says Mikko Käkelä, CEO of the Finnish Food and Drink Industries’ Federation.
Finnish Operations Center Oy’s expertise supports companies in navigating NATO’s strict entry requirements and meeting expectations. Quality and field suitability are especially important in NATO procurement.
“Finnish companies are exceptionally well equipped to meet these requirements,” says Teemu Anttila, CEO of FOC.
Growth Potential Sparks Business Interest
Finnish food exports are currently valued at €2.3 billion annually. NATO represents a significant new growth opportunity, and many Finnish companies are eager to explore it.
“We’ve long developed products that suit this kind of application, so NATO presents an exciting avenue to bring our expertise to the international stage,” says J-P Rautamaa, Commercial Director at Oy Lunden Ab.
According to Elli Siltala, Executive Vice President of Core Businesses at Valio, there is increasing global demand for clean and sustainably produced food. Finnish food exports are on the rise, and interest in responsibly produced food is growing, especially in Europe and Asia.
“We have an exceptionally clean environment, a transparent food chain, and high production standards. Growth in food exports benefits the entire Finnish food ecosystem, and we see NATO’s procurement system as an excellent opportunity for the whole sector,” Siltala concludes.