Doing Business with Norway

Exporting goods to Norway involves several steps. Here’s a comprehensive guide:

1. Research Market Requirements

   • Understand Norway’s import regulations and product standards.

2. Identify Your Product’s HS Code

   • Determine the Harmonized System (HS) code to understand tariffs and regulations.

3. Prepare Documentation

   • Gather necessary export documents: commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin.

4. Check Tariff and Non-Tariff Barriers

   • Verify any tariffs and ensure compliance with Norway’s non-tariff measures.

5. Choose a Reliable Freight Forwarder

   • Select a logistics provider experienced in shipping to Norway.

6. Comply with Labeling and Packaging Regulations

   • Ensure your products meet Norwegian labeling and packaging standards.

7. Arrange for Insurance

   • Secure insurance to cover potential shipping risks.

8. Customs Declaration

   • Submit a customs declaration electronically, often through your freight forwarder.

9. Pay Applicable Duties and Taxes

   • Calculate and pay any required import duties and VAT.

10. Track and Confirm Delivery

    • Monitor the shipment to ensure it reaches the destination safely.

Key Contacts

• Norwegian Customs (Toll)
  • Website: Norwegian Customs
• Innovation Norway
  • Website: Innovation Norway

Importing goods into Norway involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Research Import Regulations

   • Understand Norwegian import laws and product-specific regulations.

2. Obtain Necessary Licenses

   • Check if your products require special import licenses or permits.

3. Classify Your Goods

   • Determine the Harmonized System (HS) code for your products to understand tariffs and duties.

4. Prepare Documentation

   • Gather required documents: commercial invoice, bill of lading, packing list, and certificate of origin.

5. Choose a Customs Broker

   • Hire a licensed customs broker to assist with the import process.

6. Comply with Labeling and Packaging Standards

   • Ensure products meet Norwegian labeling and packaging requirements.

7. Submit Customs Declaration

   • File a customs declaration electronically through the Norwegian Customs system.

8. Pay Duties and Taxes

   • Calculate and pay any applicable import duties and VAT.

9. Arrange for Transportation and Delivery

   • Coordinate with a logistics provider to transport goods to their final destination.

10. Track and Confirm Receipt

    • Monitor shipment progress and confirm delivery upon arrival.

Key Contacts

• Norwegian Customs (Toll)
  • Website: Norwegian Customs
• Norwegian Ministry of Trade, Industry and Fisheries
  • Website: Ministry of Trade

Incorporating a company in Norway involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Choose a Business Structure

   • Decide on the type of company: Limited Liability Company (AS), Sole Proprietorship, etc.

2. Select a Company Name

   • Ensure the name is unique and complies with Norwegian naming regulations.

3. Draft Founding Documents

   • Prepare the Articles of Association and other necessary documents.

4. Open a Bank Account

   • Open a business bank account and deposit the minimum required share capital (NOK 30,000 for an AS).

5. Register the Company

   • Submit the registration application to the Brønnøysund Register Centre.

6. Obtain a VAT Number

   • Register for VAT with the Norwegian Tax Administration if turnover exceeds NOK 50,000.

7. Register Employees

   • Enroll employees in the Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration (NAV).

8. Ensure Compliance with Regulations

   • Comply with industry-specific regulations and obtain necessary permits.

Costs

• Registration Fee: Approximately NOK 5,570 for an online registration of an AS.
• Share Capital: Minimum NOK 30,000 for a Limited Liability Company (AS).

Key Contacts

• Brønnøysund Register Centre
  • Website: Brønnøysund Register Centre
• Norwegian Tax Administration
  • Website: Norwegian Tax Administration

Setting up a manufacturing plant in Norway involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Conduct a Feasibility Study

   • Analyze market demand, location, and resources to determine project viability.

2. Choose a Business Structure

   • Decide on the type of business entity: Limited Liability Company (AS), etc.

3. Register the Company

   • Register your company with the Brønnøysund Register Centre.

4. Secure Financing

   • Arrange for funding through loans or investors.

5. Select a Location

   • Choose an appropriate site, considering logistics, access to raw materials, and labor availability.

6. Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses

   • Apply for construction permits, environmental approvals, and industry-specific licenses.

7. Design and Construct the Facility

   • Hire architects and contractors to design and build the plant.

8. Purchase and Install Equipment

   • Acquire machinery and ensure it meets safety and operational standards.

9. Hire and Train Employees

   • Recruit skilled workers and provide necessary training.

10. Set Up Supply Chain and Distribution

    • Establish relationships with suppliers and distributors to ensure smooth operations.

Key Contacts

• Brønnøysund Register Centre
  • Website: Brønnøysund Register Centre
• Norwegian Directorate for Civil Protection (DSB)
  • Website: DSB
• Innovation Norway
  • Website: Innovation Norway

Registering a trademark in Norway involves several steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Conduct a Trademark Search

   • Search the Norwegian Industrial Property Office database to ensure your trademark is unique.

2. Prepare Your Application

   • Collect necessary details including the trademark design and the list of goods/services it will cover.

3. Submit the Application

   • File your application online through the Norwegian Industrial Property Office (NIPO).

4. Examination Process

   • NIPO examines the application for compliance and conflicts with existing trademarks.

5. Publication for Opposition

   • If approved, the trademark is published for a period during which others can oppose it.

6. Receive Registration Certificate

   • If no oppositions are filed, receive the official trademark registration certificate.

Costs

• Application Fee: Approximately NOK 2,900 for one class; additional fees for extra classes.

Key Contacts

• Norwegian Industrial Property Office (NIPO)
  • Website: NIPO

Resolving commercial disputes in Norway involves several steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Consult Legal Counsel
   • Engage a lawyer familiar with Norwegian commercial law.

2. Attempt Negotiation

   • Try to resolve the dispute amicably through direct negotiation with the other party.

3. Mediation

   • Consider mediation with a neutral third party to facilitate a resolution.

4. Arbitration

   • Use arbitration for a binding resolution. Norway has several arbitration bodies.

5. Litigation

   • If other methods fail, file a lawsuit in the appropriate court. Be prepared for a formal legal process.

6. Enforcement of Judgments

   • Once a decision is reached, ensure it is enforced through the relevant authorities.

Costs

• Legal Fees: Vary based on the complexity and length of the dispute.
• Court Fees: Required for litigation and depend on the case.

Key Contacts

• Norwegian Courts Administration
  • Website: Domstol.no
• Norwegian Ministry of Justice and Public Security
  • Website: Ministry of Justice

When considering business in Norway, it’s important to understand various factors:

Social and Cultural Factors

• Language: Norwegian is the official language; English is widely spoken in business settings.
• Business Etiquette: Punctuality and direct communication are valued. Formality is balanced with a focus on equality.

Political Factors

• Government: Stable constitutional monarchy with a strong democratic framework.
• Regulations: Business-friendly environment with transparent regulatory processes.

Economic Factors

• Currency: Norwegian Krone (NOK).
• Foreign Investment: Actively encouraged with robust protections for investors.

Foreign Exchange

• Exchange Rate: Relatively stable; influenced by global oil prices.
• Regulations: Open foreign exchange system, but transactions may be subject to reporting.

Rule of Law

• Legal System: Strong rule of law with efficient contract enforcement and property rights.
• Intellectual Property: Comprehensive IP laws aligned with international standards.

Infrastructure

• Transport: Advanced infrastructure with efficient road, rail, and port facilities.
• Utilities: Reliable and sustainable energy sources, with a focus on renewable energy.

Key Contacts

• Innovation Norway
  • Website: Innovation Norway
• Norwegian Ministry of Trade, Industry and Fisheries
  • Website: Ministry of Trade
• Norwegian Tax Administration
  • Website: Norwegian Tax Administration