The Norwegian Government has responded with concern but caution after USA President Donald Trump announced sweeping new tariffs affecting 180 countries, including Norway and other Nordic countries. Norwegian exports to the United States will now face a 15% tariff, while goods from the European Union will be subject to a 20% duty.
“This is bad news. It’s a very serious situation,” said Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre (Ap) to NRK. “These tariffs will likely restrict trade between our countries and will have consequences for many Norwegian businesses.”
Støre emphasized the need to remain calm and strategic in Norway’s response. “We must act with wisdom and intelligence. Norway is not in a position to threaten the United States to reverse these tariffs. Instead, we must work closely with our most important partners, especially those in Europe,” he stated.
Awaiting EU’s response as Norway evaluates next steps
Støre noted that Norway is closely watching how the European Union reacts and hinted that larger actors would likely lead any future negotiations. He is scheduled to travel to Brussels on Monday to meet with EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to discuss the implications of the tariffs and explore coordinated responses.
“The EU is our biggest export market, and Europe is what matters most right now. If there is a way to prevent a full-blown trade wall, that will be at the top of our agenda,” Støre said.
8% of Norwegian exports impacted
According to Finance Minister Jens Stoltenberg, around 8% of Norway’s mainland exports go to the United States of America, making it the country’s third-largest export market. However, over 80% of Norwegian exports are destined for Europe.
“No country benefits from trade wars or tariff hikes,” Stoltenberg said. “This is bad news for the global economy and for an open economy like Norway. We have made that clear in our dialogue with USA. authorities.”
Stoltenberg also stressed the importance of reviewing the European Economic Area (EEA) agreement and continuing efforts to shield the Norwegian economy from the ripple effects of protectionist policies. He is scheduled to attend the EU Council of Finance Ministers in Warsaw on April 11, where global trade and economic stability will be key discussion points.
Domestic industry under pressure
Minister of Trade and Industry Cecilie Myrseth (Ap) echoed the concerns, calling the new USA tariffs “a critical issue for Norway.” The government has launched an immediate review to assess the vulnerability of key sectors and identify which businesses may require support.
“We must gain a complete overview of the situation. Our priority is to protect Norwegian jobs and competitiveness,” said Støre.
Despite the abrupt escalation, Norwegian officials are not ruling out the possibility of future negotiations. “If an opportunity to negotiate arises, we will certainly seize it and stand up for Norway’s interests,” Støre affirmed.
Strategic patience over retaliation
While some Norwegian citizens have questioned why Støre has not taken a firmer stance against Trump’s administration, the Prime Minister remains committed to a measured approach.
“There’s a new style in Washington, marked by very forceful statements,” Støre told NRK’s Political Quarter program. “But countermeasures are not always the best defense.”
For now, Norway is choosing dialogue over confrontation, hoping that cooperation with EU allies will yield a path forward. As global trade tensions rise, the stakes for small but open economies like Norway have rarely been higher.
