The Norwegian government is launching a new strategy to enhance cooperation with Brazil.
“In a time marked by growing geopolitical polarization and emerging international trade conflicts, it is important for Norway to strengthen its partnerships with strategic allies like Brazil,” said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.
Norwegian companies have a particularly strong position in Brazil’s oil, gas, and offshore sectors, but Norwegian companies are also engaged in a range of other industries, including aluminum, fertilizers, and renewable energy.
“Brazil is one of the world’s largest economies, and Norwegian companies have a significant presence there. Around 230 Norwegian companies are established in Brazil. I visited the country last autumn with a business delegation, and I know that many more companies are eager to build closer ties with Brazilian partners. There is great potential for future growth,” said Minister of trade and industry Cecilie Myrseth.
Brazil is the country outside Europe and the US where Norwegian companies have invested the most. Norway and Brazil already enjoy extensive cooperation, particularly in the areas of climate and environment, and increasingly in the knowledge sector.
“Norway and Brazil have long-standing cooperation, particularly in business and trade, climate and environment, and knowledge, innovation, and digitalization. Our collaboration was further strengthened when both countries served on the UN Security Council and when Norway was one of the guest countries during Brazil’s G20 presidency in 2024. Our joint efforts to combat deforestation in the Amazon are also a common priority,” said Foreign Minister Eide.
Focuses on four areas
The first focus is business and trade cooperation. The strategy emphasizes facilitating increased trade and investment and strengthening government-to-government dialogue on business and trade issues. This includes resuming meetings of the economic commission with Brazil and advancing a trade agreement between Mercosur and EFTA that reflects Norwegian interests. A coherent and effective use of available tools, responsible business practices, green transition, and collaboration on climate-friendly solutions are also key priorities.
“The government aims to strengthen business cooperation with Brazil and facilitate trade, investment, and sustainable development,” said Minister Myrseth. “Brazil is one of the most important markets for both Norwegian shipping and seafood, which is why the government is prioritizing cooperation with the country,” said Minister of fisheries and ocean Policy Marianne Sivertsen Næss.
Climate, environment and food security are other focus areas. The strategy highlights cooperation on rainforest preservation, sustainable ocean management, and food production. The Amazon Fund remains at the heart of bilateral cooperation, with Norway also supporting additional initiatives in climate and nature. The goal is to support effective solutions to combat climate change, preserve biodiversity, promote sustainable development, and fight hunger and poverty.
The strategy also focuses on knowledge, innovation and digitalization, and democracy and a rules-based international order.
