Danes have never had it so good – report

Things are better now than before the financial crisis

According to a new report published yesterday by the Business Ministry, prosperity levels in Denmark are currently at a record high.

The report (here in Danish) showed that prosperity measured in Gross National Income (GNI) per citizen in 2017 was higher than the level in 2007 – in fact the levels have risen by 0.5 percent every year over the past decade, and in 2017, it stood at 55,220 dollars, placing it eighth in the world.

Only Switzerland, Norway, Luxemboug, Qatar, Iceland, the US and Ireland had a higher rate, with Sweden back in 10th and Finland 14th.

“We’ve talked for several years about how Denmark isn’t as strong as Sweden when it comes to generating growth in production. But we’ve still managed to create welfare on a par with the Swedes and I think that Danish companies have managed to take advantage of opportunities abroad,” said Rasmus Jarlov, the business minister.

READ MORE: Was the growth of the welfare state actually a warfare defence strategy?

Companies key
The report underlines the need to continue focusing on digitalisation and new technology – not only in Denmark, but also in the international markets, where growth potential is estimated to be particularly strong.

When accounting for growth and welfare, the report considered five sub-categories: Digital transition in business, Qualified labour, Access to venture capital, Low expenses for companies, and Competitive companies.

“Denmark must continue to be competitive and easy to run a company in. It’s the companies that create growth and prosperity for us all, so the government will continue to ease the business sector of administrative burdens,” said Jarlov.




  • The international who shaped Copenhagen

    The international who shaped Copenhagen

    Anna Maria Indrio is one of the most important architects in Denmark, having contributed to shaping Copenhagen into what it is today. Among her best-known projects are the extension of SMK and Arken, as well as the Natural History Museum and the Darwin Centre in London. She moved here 60 years ago, when “Copenhagen was gray and dormant. Predictions suggested it would become depopulated. But putting people at the center changed everything,” she said

  • Danish government passes amendment to increase citizenship fee by 50%

    Danish government passes amendment to increase citizenship fee by 50%

    Fees were raised to reflect processing costs and curb repeat applications, creating debate over whether the new charges erect barriers to political participation for internationals.

  • Internationals’ labour contributes 361 billion DKK to Denmark’s GDP, and it is growing strongly every year

    Internationals’ labour contributes 361 billion DKK to Denmark’s GDP, and it is growing strongly every year

    According to a report by the Danish Chamber of Commerce, internationals’ contribution is 12% of the country’s GDP. In 2023, it was 322 billion DKK, and in 2008, it was 136 billion DKK. “Internationals make a gigantic difference in our prosperity and welfare,” comments Morten Langager, the Director of Dansk Erhverv.

  • Inside Denmark’s innovation engine

    Inside Denmark’s innovation engine

    With half of its staff being international, the BioInnovation Institute reflects Denmark’s broader transformation into a global innovation hub. But can the country—and Europe—keep up the pace? “If reforms are made now, we can close the gap in ten years,” explains BII’s CEO

  • Denmark launches massive investment in the navy

    Denmark launches massive investment in the navy

    Two months ago, the Danish PM announced that military equipment should be purchased in a hurry. The first plans for the sea are now ready. Additional plans for warships will follow this summer.

  • International designers struggle to find jobs in Denmark

    International designers struggle to find jobs in Denmark

    Many internationals come to Denmark to work as designers, but the field appears to be one of the hardest to break into. The Copenhagen Post spoke with two internationals struggling to find their way into the industry.

Connect Club is your gateway to a vibrant programme of events and an international community in Denmark.