Tariffstatistikåret

Tariffstatistikåret, also known as the "Year of Tariff Statistics," refers to a period in the early 20th century when Norway undertook a comprehensive effort to collect, analyze, and publish detailed statistics on tariffs and customs duties. This initiative was part of broader efforts to modernize Norway’s economic data collection and inform policy-making during a time of significant industrial and trade development.

The project was spearheaded by the Norwegian Statistical Central Bureau (Statistisk Sentralbyrå), which began systematically recording tariff rates, trade volumes, and related economic indicators. The goal was to provide policymakers, businesses, and researchers with accurate data to assess the impact of customs policies on Norway’s economy. The collected statistics were published in annual reports, which became essential references for discussions on trade regulation and economic strategy.

The Tariffstatistikåret coincided with Norway’s efforts to balance protectionist measures with international trade obligations, particularly as the country navigated its transition from an agrarian to an industrialized economy. The detailed records helped in evaluating the effectiveness of tariffs on imports, such as manufactured goods and agricultural products, and in negotiating trade agreements with other nations.

While the term "Tariffstatistikåret" is not widely used today, the work conducted during this period laid important foundations for Norway’s statistical traditions. The data collected during this time contributed to later economic analyses and informed decisions on tariff reforms in the mid-20th century. The initiative remains a notable example of how systematic statistical efforts can support evidence-based policymaking in trade and economic affairs.