Based on the answers and comments provided, I have renamed the Excel file to .zip, without actually zipping it.

Then I have downloaded 7-zip software, which provides an option to open the .zip file when right-clicked. I can now see the XML structure of the Excel file in 7-zip.

Thank you for helping me out!

Answer from LAKSHMI on Stack Overflow
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Microsoft Support
support.microsoft.com › en-us › office › import-xml-data-6eca3906-d6c9-4f0d-b911-c736da817fa4
Import XML data - Microsoft Support
To control the behavior of XML data, such as data binding, format, and layout, click Properties, which displays the XML Map properties dialog box. For example, existing data in a mapped range is overwritten when you import data by default, but you can change this. Click File > Open.
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support.microsoft.com › en-us › office › overview-of-xml-in-excel-f11faa7e-63ae-4166-b3ac-c9e9752a7d80
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You can apply these transforms ... the formatting before the data is added to the worksheet, but only when you open an XML file by using the Open command from within Excel....
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May 1, 2025 - 9. You can change the formatting ... 2. Click “Open”. ... 9. Once all elements are in place, right-click on one of the XML elements in the worksheet, select “XML” then click “Refresh XML Data”....
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Hi Shane,

Thank you for the various suggestions. My Excel installation was in fact up to date, and I closed all add-ins (two Microsoft add-ins). I also performed the quick repair on the 365 installation. But in the end I was still unable to open the XML file.

The file in question can be opened with an editor program without problems. I have also tried several XML files which I have opened last month without problems: they all get stuck in the opening dialog box.

I have a feeling that a 365 update installed (automatically) on October 4 is the culprit, so I'll just wait for a new one.

Best regards,

Poul Andersson

2 of 3
1

Hi,

I'm sorry to hear that you're experiencing issues with opening XML files in Excel 365. This issue could be caused by a number of factors, including a corrupt installation of Office 365 or a conflict with other software on your computer. Here are a few troubleshooting steps you can try:

  1. Check for updates: Make sure that you have the latest updates installed for Office 365. To do this, open Excel and go to File > Account > Update Options > Update Now.
  2. Repair Office: Try repairing your Office 365 installation. To do this, go to Control Panel > Programs and Features > Microsoft Office 365 > Change > Quick Repair.
  3. Disable add-ins: Try disabling any add-ins that you have installed in Excel. To do this, go to File > Options > Add-ins > Manage: Excel Add-ins > Go. Uncheck any add-ins that are currently enabled and click OK.
  4. Try opening the file in a different program: If you have another program that can open XML files, try opening the file in that program to see if it opens correctly.
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Jkp-ads
jkp-ads.com › articles › excel2007fileformat00.aspx
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An Excel xlsx/xlsm file is nothing more than a zip container which holds a couple of folders and files. You can view those simply by adding .zip behind the filename. Then you right-click the file and select Explore. The XML package in an Excel 2007 file is structured like this: