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Sylvi Listhaug” title=”Photo: Kaspara Aavik Stoltze / NRK”/>Minister of Agriculture and Food Sylvi Listhaug has stated that grocery retailers will be closely monitored to ensure that any reduction in value-added tax (VAT) translates into lower prices for consumers at teh checkout.
Photo: Kaspara Aavik Stoltze / NRK
Oslo, Norway – August 8, 2025 – norwegian Agriculture and Food Minister Sylvi Listhaug announced today a commitment to scrutinize supermarket pricing practices should the government proceed with planned reductions to the VAT on food products. The move aims to guarantee that potential tax savings are directly passed on to shoppers, countering concerns that retailers might absorb the benefits rather.
The current standard VAT rate in Norway is 25%, with a reduced rate of 15% applied to most food items. Discussions surrounding a further reduction in the food VAT have been ongoing for months, fueled by rising living costs and increasing pressure on household budgets.Proponents argue that lowering the tax would make groceries more affordable, particularly for low-income families.
Listhaug, representing the Progress Party, emphasized the importance of accountability within the grocery sector. She indicated that her ministry would implement measures to track price developments following any VAT
