Frequently Asked Questions

frequently asked questions

Norway-UK Trade
What are the main industries involved in UK–Norway trade?2025-09-24T11:06:44+02:00

The strongest sectors include energy and renewables (oil, gas, offshore wind), seafood and agriculture, technology and digital services, and defence and aerospace. BNCC members span these and other industries.  Further information is available here in the UK Department for Business and Trade’s Factsheet presenting the latest statistics on trade and investment between the UK and Norway.

How has Brexit impacted UK–Norwegian trade, and what support is available for businesses trading between the UK and Norway?2025-09-24T11:07:26+02:00

Since the UK’s exit from the EU, trade with Norway has continued under the UK–Norway Free Trade Agreement, which maintains tariff‑free trade for most goods. This has helped protect a strong bilateral relationship—worth over £40 billion annually.

However, businesses now face additional non‑tariff barriers such as customs declarations, VAT administration, and regulatory divergence. These changes can be especially challenging for SMEs without large compliance teams.

One positive measure is that Norwegian businesses—and in some cases UK businesses—benefit from an exemption from the EU’s fiscal representative requirement for VAT registration. This arrangement reduces costs and admin for smaller firms trading with the EU and can serve as a model for future UK–EU agreements.

We are keen to hear from our members about challenges you are facing to help us shape our advocacy and ensure we can connect you with the right support, whether it’s navigating regulations, finding trusted partners, or influencing future trade discussions.

What is the UK–Norway Free Trade Agreement?2025-09-24T11:07:53+02:00

Implemented after Brexit, the UK–Norway Free Trade Agreement ensures tariff-free trade on most goods and provides frameworks for cooperation on services, digital trade, and sustainability. It strengthens market access for companies in both countries.

Why is the UK–Norway relationship important for business?2025-09-24T11:08:24+02:00

The UK and Norway are mutually significant trading partners with shared values and economic goals. Collaboration on green energy, innovation, and digitalisation makes this bilateral relationship increasingly valuable for future-focused businesses.

BNCC Membership
How can BNCC help my company do business in the UK or Norway?2025-09-24T11:12:34+02:00

BNCC offers market intelligence, strategic introductions, and access to a global network of Chambers of Commerce. Whether you’re seeking suppliers, distributors, or investors, we help bridge the gap between Norwegian and British markets.

Can startups benefit from UK–Norway trade links?2025-09-24T11:14:01+02:00

Absolutely. Startups in clean technologies, AI, food, and professional services are actively exploring cross-border opportunities. BNCC supports early-stage companies through tailored connections and access to funding or partnerships in both markets.

How do you define a start-up?2025-09-24T11:14:28+02:00

A start up must be a business that is less than 2 years old and have an annual revenue equal to or less than 2M NOK.

How much is membership for BNCC start-up members?2025-09-24T11:14:55+02:00

Membership is 6,000 per annum.

How much is membership for BNCC corporate members?2025-09-24T11:15:22+02:00

Membership is 19,200 per annum.

What is the value of the British Chambers of Commerce network?2025-09-24T11:16:16+02:00

As a member of the British Chambers of Commerce network, we are the only British Norwegian networking group to also provide access to the 51 Accredited Chambers of Commerce found in every region and nation of the UK.

The British Chamber of Commerce represents over 70,000 businesses employing 6 million people, providing unparalleled insight into British business communities representing diverse sectors,

The British Chambers of Commerce is part of an International Network of over 75 British Chambers of Commerce and business groups located in every continent of the world.

Do you do barter agreements on membership?2025-09-24T11:17:09+02:00

Very occasionally we will agree to barter agreements where membership is paid in kind through provision of services.

BNCC collaborations
How does the BNCC work with the British Embassy in Oslo?2025-09-24T11:17:54+02:00

The British Ambassador is the patron of the BNCC and as such, will endeavor to attend our events and to give welcome speeches when appropriate. We collaborate closely with the British Embassy staff to align on strategic topics and events. The British Ambassador has traditionally hosted a Christmas reception at the Residence which BNCC members are invited to.  In addition, BNCC members are often on the guest list for events such as King Charles III’s birthday party at the Residence. The British Ambassador also hosts roundtables on strategically important topics for UK Norway relations in collaboration with the BNCC.

How is the British Norwegian Chamber of Commerce different to the Norwegian British Chamber of Commerce?2025-09-24T11:18:26+02:00

The British Norwegian Chamber of Commerce is located in Oslo and is a not-for-profit organization funded by members.  It exists to encourage more trade from Norway to the UK and vice versa.  It is part of the British Chambers of Commerce network, meaning access to all 51 British Chambers of Commerce and the Chamber’s international network. It works closely with the British Embassy in London.

The Norwegian British Chamber of Commerce is located in London and Aberdeen and is part of Team Norway, funded by the Norwegian government.  It promotes trade and investment between Norway and the UK. It works closely with the Norwegian Embassy in London and Innovation Norway.

The BNCC and NBCC collaborate and have held events together.

Becoming a BNCC Director
I’m interested to join the Board of the BNCC. What is the election process?2025-09-24T11:19:44+02:00

The BNCC Nominations Committee is responsible for identifying potential candidates for the Board, reviewing backgrounds, analyzing competence matrices and gathering input from the current Board. This is to ensure an independent and well-informed recommendation that supports a strategically balanced board composition. Those who are elected are chosen based on the right combination of expertise, network, availability, personality and Board fit.

It’s a role that demands time and effort – Board members are expected to actively contribute to meetings, discussions, and initiatives that drive the organization forward.

If you are interested to join the Board, please contact the Nominations Committee  members via LinkedIn:

Eva Helen Rognskog, Project Manager – Necia Tech Cluster

Gillean Dean Nordal COO – Receipts.

 

How long do Board members hold their position for?2025-09-24T11:21:48+02:00

Board members are appointed for two years and can serve up to three consecutive terms within a 10-year period.

I am interested to be a member but am currently unemployed, is there any provision for me?

Unfortunately it is the company that becomes a member, not the individual.  However, members are allowed to bring a guest with them to events, opening up the possibility for non-members to still participate in our events.

Still have questions? Contact us — we’re happy to help you explore opportunities in the UK–Norway business corridor.

Go to Top