From debate to action: Joining forces for fairer trade

Earlier this year, Vend and Tradera found themselves on opposite sides of a debate in Aftonbladet regarding the impact of ultra-fast fashion giants. The discussion highlighted the risks posed by unsafe imports — including unfair competition, safety concerns for consumers, and the environmental cost of mass consumption.

Rather than stopping at words, we decided to discuss how to turn the debate into action, exploring joint initiatives to stop unsafe imports while boosting circular marketplaces.

Why this matters

Every day, millions of small parcels enter the EU market, often without sufficient checks to ensure that they meet EU safety, chemical, and environmental standards and regulations. This puts Swedish consumers at risk, drives overconsumption, and undermines businesses that follow the rules.

At Vend, we believe that a thriving marketplace must be sustainable, fair, and transparent. We have been vocal about the need for smarter regulation, including measures that level the playing field for responsible businesses and avoid harm to both people and the planet.

A constructive meeting

Last week, we welcomed Svensk Handel, Sveriges Konsumenter, and Tradera to Vend’s offices for a constructive and solutions-oriented discussion. The meeting marked the opening of an important dialogue on solutions for fair competition in the Swedish market, without letting unsafe imports shift the cost onto consumers or the planet.

This initiative is an example of what we at Vend believe is key to real change: collaboration across sectors. From marketplaces like Vend and Tradera to trade organisations and consumer rights associations. By engaging in dialogue and exploring joint initiatives, we can drive systemic change that benefits consumers, businesses, and the planet.

“Debate is important, but constructive dialogue is what creates lasting impact. We’re proud to be part of the ongoing debate on how to ensure fairer, safer, and more sustainable trade in Sweden,” says Anna Strindberg, Head of Sustainability at Vend. 

Stay tuned for updates, as we continue exchanging perspectives with partners and policymakers to shape the future of circular marketplaces.