Hanna Katrín Friðriksson, the Minister of Employment, is set to introduce a significant piece of legislation in the upcoming spring session of 2026. This bill aims to merge the Food Agency, the Fisheries Agency, and the Valuation Agency into a single entity.
According to a statement from the Ministry of Employment, the proposed legislation will also transition the responsibilities of local health inspectorates concerning food inspections to the newly formed agency. “The objectives of the bill align with the priorities expressed in the government’s agreement, focusing on the simplification of administration, streamlining government operations, and enhancing efficiency in the interactions between businesses and the public sector,” the Ministry’s website notes.
### A Unified Approach to Oversight
The Ministry’s feasibility analysis highlights that the Norwegian Food Agency, the Norwegian Fisheries Agency, and the Exchange Price Agency all perform regulatory oversight related to food. Given the similar nature of their functions and the fact that their operations are often conducted in close geographic proximity, the analysis suggests a harmonious integration.
The announcement elaborates, “This unification will facilitate coordinated policy planning and implementation in food production and fishing. It also presents an opportunity to enhance services, reduce bureaucratic hurdles, and improve the overall experience for businesses. We anticipate establishing a robust regulatory body in these sectors, with offices spread across the country.”
### Attracting Top Talent
In the autumn months, both the Minister of Economic Affairs and the Minister of Environment, Energy, and Climate unveiled plans aimed at streamlining the regulatory framework. This initiative will likely lead to the transfer of oversight over food production, hygiene practices, and pollution prevention to the appropriate government bodies.
“The food aspect of this initiative will be encompassed within the forthcoming bill introduced by the Minister of Employment. The Ministry of Employment, alongside the Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Energy and Climate, will continue collaborating to ensure a smooth transition of responsibilities from local authorities,” the announcement states.
Minister Friðriksson further emphasized, “The simplification of administration and the merging of institutions remain key goals for our government. This project reflects that commitment. We are prioritizing efficient and transparent services, advancing digital development, and fostering strong workplaces across the country to promote economic growth and value creation. The newly formed organization aims to become an attractive workplace for our finest professionals in this field, offering ample opportunities for career development nationwide.”
The proposed reorganization has already been communicated to employees of the involved agencies, with plans for the new entity to begin operations in January 2027.
