Doing Business with Norway

A comprehensive guide to doing business, exporting, investing, and manufacturing in Norway.

Foreign Direct Investment with the International Trade Council / Company Incorporation / Company Formation

Albanian Investment Development Agency

Tel: +355 42 251 001
Email: info@aida.gov.al
Web: www.aida.gov.al

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General Directorate of Customs

Albania General Directorate of Customs - International Trade Council

 

Tel: +355 42 253 820
Email: helpdesk.dpd@dogana.gov.al
Web: www.dogana.gov.al

National Chamber of Commerce

Albanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Albanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry - International Trade Council

Tel: +355 45 800 932
Email: cci.tirana@cci.al
Web: www.cci.al

Ministry of Economy Information from the International Trade Council - a Peak-body - international chamber of commerce

Ministry of Finance and Economy, Albania

  • Type of Government: Constitutional Monarchy
  • Population: Approximately 5.4 million
  • GDP: Around $500 billion USD
  • Corporate Tax Rate: 22%
  • Personal Income Tax Rate: Progressive, up to 38.2%
  • Major Exports: Petroleum, natural gas, machinery, fish
  • Major Imports: Machinery, vehicles, electronics, pharmaceuticals

 

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

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

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

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

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)

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

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

Our Members Include Leading Organizations in Norway

Ask our Experts on Doing Business in/with Norway

If you’re looking to do business or invest in Norway, we can provide expert guidance, market insights, and valuable connections to help you navigate the local landscape. Contact us today to discover how we can assist in making your venture a success.