The Norwegian regulator Nkom commissioned WIK-Consult to assess the data economy market in Norway in preparation for the future implementation of the Data Act. The report utilizes both quantitative and qualitative data from publicly and commercially available sources. Interviews were also conducted to cross-check the trends and indicators identified through data collection and literature review. Norway has established a strong foundation for its data economy, characterized by digitally engaged SMEs, high public acceptance of data sharing, and a significant availability of datasets and companies offering ICT training. By 2025, Norway’s data economy is estimated to comprise 5.4% of GDP.
Primary stakeholders in Norway’s data economy include infrastructure providers such as Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud, as well as data suppliers like Statistics Norway and the Norwegian Mapping Authority. Representing 2.4% of all companies, slightly above the EU average, 7,300 are classified as active data users according to the European Data Market Monitoring Tool. On the other hand, commercial data sharing as a product or service is highly developed in Norway, well above the EU average.
The report also compares similarities and differences between Norway and some benchmark countries. While Norway has a relative shortage of ICT professionals, it also shows promising potential, e.g. in the field of IoT. Three potential future scenarios have been analyzed for the year 2030, with the baseline scenario projecting the data economy to be 7.5% of GDP, and the high growth and challenge scenarios estimating 8.6% and 6.2% of GDP, respectively.
The upcoming Data Act complements the existing Norwegian context, including the recently published National Digitalisation Strategy 2024-2030. Policy recommendations include supporting commercial data supply, improving the availability of skilled labor, and removing regulatory uncertainties, among others.
©
Photo Credit:
william87 - stock.adobe.com
Market study on the Norwegian Data Economy
Review of key actors, trends, and challenges in Norway's data economy, with policy recommendations.
Norway's data economy is robust, driven by digitally engaged SMEs and high public acceptance of data sharing. With abundant datasets and ICT training resources, it is projected to reach 5.4% of GDP in 2025. The implementation of the European Data Act and Norway’s National Digitalisation Strategy 2024-2030 aim to enhance commercial data supply and skilled labor availability, positioning Norway for future growth.
