Tornio forms a unique economical zone together with Swedish town Haparanda. The city has a large steel factory and a famous brewery (Lapin Kulta), which was closed in August 2010. Outokumpu steel company is biggest employer in Tornio area.
After World War II, the town created new employment with the success of the local brewery Lapin Kulta and the stainless steel factory Outokumpu. Tourism based on the border has been a growing industry too