Tollvesenet

Tollvesenet, literally the Toll Administration, is the historic Norwegian state agency responsible for customs control and the collection of duties on goods entering or leaving Norway. In contemporary terminology, the functions associated with Tollvesenet are carried out by Tolletaten, the Norwegian Customs, which operates under the national tax administration, Skatteetaten. The term Tollvesenet is often used in a historical or traditional context to refer to Norway’s customs authority.

The core responsibilities of Tollvesenet include regulating imports and exports, collecting customs duties, value-added tax on imports, and other excise taxes. The agency enforces customs laws and anti-smuggling measures, controls the movement of restricted or regulated goods, and issues permits and licenses as required for specific goods or activities. It also handles the processing of customs declarations, conducts risk-based inspections at border crossing points such as ports and airports, and collaborates with other government bodies in matters of border security and enforcement.

Beyond enforcement, Tollvesenet aims to facilitate legitimate trade by providing guidance on tariff classifications, origin rules, documentation, and procedures for traders. The agency works with businesses to ensure compliance with national and international trade regulations, while maintaining border controls to protect public revenue and safety.

Historically, Tollvesenet referred to Norway’s customs administration as a separate state agency. Over time, its functions have been integrated into the broader Skatteetaten framework, and the modern Norwegian Customs is commonly known as Tolletaten. The traditional name Tollvesenet remains a reference to the country’s customs heritage and its role in trade governance.