The average production of Norwegian crude oil is expected to decrease from 3.1 million barrels per day in 2002 to 3.0 million barrels per day in 2003. Gas export is expected to increase from 68 billion scm this year to 71 billion scm next year.

In the National Budget for 2003, investments on the Norwegian continental shelf are estimated to NOK 67.9 billion in 2003 and NOK 59.3 billion this year. This estimate includes investments related to exploration.

The state's net cash flow from the petroleum sector is estimated to NOK 172.8 billion next year and NOK 169.6 billion this year. The 2002 estimate includes the sale of 6.5 % of the SDFI- portfolio.

Taxes and fees constitute approximately NOK 106.6 billion of the state's net cash flow in 2003. NOK 61.5 billion is net cash flow from the SDFI. Dividends from Statoil ASA, disposal contribution and the administration cost of Petoro AS make up the remaining net cash flow.

The net cash flow in 2003 is based on an estimated oil price of NOK 180 per barrel. For the present year the net cash flow is based on an oil price of NOK 200 per barrel.

The value of total export from the petroleum sector (including pipeline transportation) is estimated to NOK 256.2 billion next year. This is a reduction of NOK 28.7 billion compared with 2002.