Norway has expressed strong disapproval of President Donald Trump’s decision to implement a 12.5% tariff on most imports from Norway, labeling the move as both unfair and unwarranted. The new tariff, which was put into effect immediately, primarily impacts Norwegian exports, including seafood, furniture, and various industrial products.
Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide has refuted the United States’ assertion that Norway has neglected to prevent imports associated with forced labor. He emphasized that Norwegian law strictly bans goods produced through forced or child labor, and confirmed that the Norwegian government has formally conveyed its opposition to U.S. officials.
Adding to its grievances, Norway has questioned why it is subject to a higher tariff than the European Union and the United Kingdom, both of which are facing a 10% tariff. Despite these concerns, the Norwegian government has decided against imposing retaliatory tariffs, arguing that such measures would only elevate costs for Norwegian consumers.
While the United States accounts for only a small fraction of Norway’s export market, officials and analysts have cautioned that the new tariffs could lead to a decline in seafood exports and potentially undermine the principles of free trade.