Norway has openly criticized the recent decision by U.S. President Donald Trump to implement a 12.5% tariff on most imports from Norway, labeling the move as both unfair and unwarranted. The tariffs, which took effect immediately, primarily target Norwegian exports including seafood, furniture, and industrial goods.
Espen Barth Eide, Norway’s Foreign Minister, refuted the U.S. government’s justification that Norway had not adequately prevented imports associated with forced labor. He asserted that Norwegian law explicitly bans products made with forced or child labor, and noted that the Norwegian government has formally communicated its objections to U.S. officials.
The Norwegian government has also questioned why the tariff imposed on its goods is higher than the 10% tariff levied on imports from the European Union and the United Kingdom. Despite the perceived inequity, Norway has decided against introducing counter-tariffs, arguing that such measures would only lead to increased costs for Norwegian consumers.
Although only a minor portion of Norway’s exports are destined for the United States, both officials and analysts have expressed concern that the new tariffs could significantly impact seafood exports and potentially undermine the principles of free trade.