China and Norway at 70: Salmon and Beyond

by Liu Qiyu

BEIJING, Jan. 26 (China Economic Net) - "As we are celebrating the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Norway and China this year, we look forward to enhancing the bilateral economic relations, facilitating business cooperation, and strengthening cultural links between our two countries," pinpointed Tone Helene Aarvik, Counsellor and Head of Economic Team, the Norwegian Embassy in Beijing.

Emphasizing China as Norway's main trading partner in Asia, Aarvik in an exclusive interview with China Economic Net noted increased activity between both nations in core industries, including maritime and shipping, green transition, consumer goods, and seafood in the post-pandemic era.

Aarvik observed a surge in Norwegian businesses venturing into China, with a record number participating in major events such as the China International Import Expo (CIIE), MarineTec, and China Fisheries & Seafood Expo in 2023. "Last year a business survey conducted among Norwegian companies operating in China shows that they hold a positive outlook for further growth in the Chinese market," she added.

"Seafood has become the largest export commodity from Norway to China in 2023. Salmon is perhaps the most popular imported fish in the Chinese market," Aarvik told the reporter.

According to data from the Norwegian Seafood Council (NSC), in 2023, Norwegian seafood exports to China reached 158,909 tonnes, with the export value hitting 8.54 billion NOK, an 18% increase from the previous year. In terms of export value, the Chinese market ranks eighth in Norway's global seafood export markets and continues to be the largest market in Asia. This reflects the steadily growing demand for Norwegian seafood among Chinese consumers.

On top of seafood, Aarvik underscored the growing interest in collaboration related to green transition, shipping, tourism, and so on, foreseeing significant opportunities for Norwegian businesses.

Sharing insights into the enduring relationship between Norway and China as both nations celebrate the 70th anniversary of diplomatic ties in 2024, Aarvik expressed confidence in international expos, such as the China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS) and CIIE, continuing to serve as vital platforms for Norwegian businesses to connect with potential partners and gain insights into the dynamic Chinese market.

The upcoming Chinese Spring Festival holiday - to commence on February 10 - is likely to spark travel and consumption frenzy in both China and foreign countries. As it is becoming increasingly popular to visit Norway for the Nordic Lights, winter and snowy landscape during the winter, "we are very pleased to see Chinese tourists coming to Norway," Aarvik highlighted.