The Norwegian Government launches white paper on industry to strengthen industrial competitiveness

– Norway has a proud industrial history, and our industry is doing well. However, the global geopolitical situation is evolving, bringing new challenges, and new opportunities. In this white paper, we set out our priorities for the future of Norwegian industry, says the Minister of Trade and Industry Cecilie Myrseth.

The industrial sector currently represents around 11 percent of all Norwegian business revenue. The sector’s revenues reached a new record high in 2024, and more growth, increased exports and jobs growth are expected in 2025.

– Market access is of major importance to Norwegian industry. Many of our companies are highly integrated in international value chains. Norwegian gas covers around 30 percent of the gas consumption in EU and the United Kingdom. Norwegian industry also produces more than 40 percent of all new aluminum in the EU and EEA. This illustrates why market access is one of our main policy priorities going forward, says Myrseth.

The Letta and Draghi reports have raised awareness on industrial productivity growth and competitiveness in the EU countries. Based on their recommendations, the European Commission has launched new plans to meet these challenges as outlined in the Competitiveness Compass and the Clean Industrial Deal. The Clean Industrial Deal is a plan for EU competitiveness and decarbonisation.

The priorities in Norwegian white paper are well aligned with the overall ambitions of the Clean Industrial Deal, while also considering the unique starting point and potential in Norwegian industry. The white paper emphasizes market access, security and emergency preparedness, as well as access to clean and affordable power.

Norwegian industry is already one of the world’s most carbon-efficient, having been highly electrified and based on renewable power since the beginning more than 120 years ago.

– In times of uncertainty, the Government will contribute with good, predictable and stable framework conditions. We need an active industrial policy. This white paper on industry will facilitate private investments and further growth, in line with the tripartite cooperation and the Norwegian model. This is about ensuring our competitiveness for a new era, says the Minister of Trade and Industry.