Þjóðhagfélaginu

Þjóðhagfélaginu was a mercantile company based in Iceland, active from 1918 to 1964. The company was founded by a group of Icelandic businessmen with the goal of establishing trade relations with countries in the South Sea region, including Australia, New Zealand, and other Pacific nations.

Þjóðhagfélaginu was granted a royal charter by George V, King of the United Kingdom, in 1918, allowing it to be a de facto overseas merchant of Iceland. The company's primary objective was to facilitate trade with its associated countries and other nations in the region. It sought to promote the export of Icelandic goods, such as wool and other agricultural products, while also facilitating the import of materials not produced in Iceland.

During its operation, Þjóðhagfélaginu struck several agreements with the governments of associated countries. The most notable agreement was the 1923 Convention between the Government of Iceland and the New Zealand government, which further established the trading rights of Þjóðhagfélaginu in New Zealand. This led to a significant increase in Icelandic trade and commerce with the South Seas region.

Þjóðhagfélaginu's operation helped solidify Iceland's position as an independent trading nation. However, as global trade and commerce evolved, the company faced increasing competition and declining trade opportunities. In 1964, Þjóðhagfélaginu ceased its operations, citing diminished trading volumes and profitability. Following its dissolution, Þjóðhagfélaginu's business operations and trading rights were transferred to the Icelandic government.