October 16, 2012

Norway calls for hike in cheese and meat import tariffs

Norway has suggested for an increase in cheese and meat import tariffs in its 2013 budget.

Hard cheeses are set to be subjected to import tariffs equating to 277% of their value.

Norway is also planning to raise tariffs on imports of lamb and beef.

Denmark has responded angrily to the new Norwegian import tariff regime, while Sweden is reluctant to enter into a "trade war" with their Scandinavian neighbours.

The Norwegian Agrarian Association (Norges Bondelag) however welcomed the move.

"It is absolutely crucial if we are to have a farming industry in Norway or not," according to Nils Björke at the association.

"If you look at the development in Sweden, where milk production is declining, this confirms that we have a duty to maintain agriculture. Customs tariffs limit the growth of imports and is a signal from the authorities that they want farming in Norway," he said.

The decision will have a significant impact on the Swedish cheese industry as Norway is currently the largest export market.