Business Corruption in Norway

Norway ranks among the least corrupt countries in the world, and business is conducted with a high level of transparency. Corruption does not represent a constraint to trade or investment, and administrative corruption and petty bribery are almost non-existent. The Norwegian Penal Code criminalises active and passive bribery , trading in influence , fraud , extortion , breach of trust and money laundering . It applies to anyone who is registered in Norway and carries a penalty of up to 10 years' imprisonment, even if the act is committed abroad. A company can be held criminally liable for corruption offences committed by individuals acting on its behalf. Facilitation payments are prohibited, and gifts and hospitality can be considered illegal depending on their value, the intent and benefit obtained. These practices, however, very rarely occur. Law enforcement activities and the legal framework for combating corruption are very strong, and anti-corruption laws are enforced. There are no reports of official impunity. Norway’s economic crime-fighting unit, Økokrim, has proven itself effective in investigating and prosecuting corruption in Norway and, to some extent, abroad.

December 2015
GAN Integrity Solutions