The move is being taken in order to face up to international competition at a time when the economic situation is poor and significant fluctuations in currency exchange rates have exacerbated the situation. This measure will affect all Swedish business areas, and staff at all levels. Trade union negotiations will commence with immediate effect. These redundancies are part of the group’s initiative to reduce its overall costs. “Södra operates in an international market. Just like other companies, Södra is affected by the prevailing economic situation and trading conditions. The outlook for our main markets remains uncertain. To be able to face up to international competition, we have to undertake measures to reduce our costs,” said Gunilla Saltin, Acting CEO at Södra.