Stricter marketing act to prevent illegal marketing practices

The government today submitted a proposal for a new marketing act. Cross-border trade is increasing and goods and services are being marketed in new ways. As a result, a modern and efficient regulatory framework is required.

Consumer protection will be strengthened. It will be harder for unethical businesses to achieve short-term profit by breaking the law. Enforcement authorities will be able to charge fines when violations occur.

Special rules are proposed with regard to marketing to children. When children are the target group, the regulations will be more strictly interpreted.
"Children and young people are experiencing increased marketing pressure in more and more media, and it's important to increase awareness of the need to protect children in this area," says Minister of Children and Equality Anniken Huitfeldt.
"The government also proposes better protection against unwanted telephone marketing. The consumer must actively opt out of such marketing, but the system should be more effective. No telephone solicitations will be permitted during the weekends or after 9 p.m. on weekdays. And if a sale is conducted by telephone the consumer must accept the offer in writing in order to be held to it."

In addition, the government is proposing to give consumers the right to opt out of receiving all types of free newspapers. A liberalization of the rules pertaining to extra services, rebate coupons and competitions is also proposed.
The main principle at work is that consumers should have a good base of correct information before choosing to purchase goods and services. Much of Norway's regulatory framework will now be the same as that of other EEA countries. The result will be a more secure overall transaction environment for business people and consumers alike.