Norway changes the law. A series of changes will take effect from 2026
From January 2026, new regulations will come into force that will affect the daily lives of Norway's residents. The government has presented a full list of laws and amendments that will apply after the New Year. The changes cover public health, the labor market, and maritime transport.
The age limit for purchasing caffeinated drinks is one of the biggest changes.
Fot. Adobe Stock, licencja standardowa (zdjęcie poglądowe)
One of the key changes is the introduction of an age limit for purchasing energy drinks. From 2026, the sale of such products to persons under the age of 16 will be prohibited. Stores will be able to request a valid ID if there are doubts about the customer's age.
The regulations will cover all energy drinks available in retail stores. The changes have been announced by the government for some time.
The regulations will cover all energy drinks available in retail stores. The changes have been announced by the government for some time.
Changes in anti-nicotine regulations
The amendment will also cover anti-nicotine laws. Smoking cigarettes and e-cigarettes will be prohibited in cars if children under the age of 18 are present. The ban will also apply to playgrounds and outdoor sports facilities.
It will no longer be possible to order tobacco, snus, or e-cigarettes from abroad via the Internet. The new regulations will come into force at the beginning of 2026.
It will no longer be possible to order tobacco, snus, or e-cigarettes from abroad via the Internet. The new regulations will come into force at the beginning of 2026.
This is another element in the fight against nicotine use among young people.Photo: Pixabay
Higher fines for boat users
The changes will also affect maritime traffic and recreational boat users. The amount of fines has not been updated since 2001 and will change in 2026. The penalty for exceeding the speed limit on the water will increase from NOK 1,500 to NOK 5,000. Higher penalties will apply throughout the coastal waters.
The regulations will apply to both owners and users of watercraft. Stricter penalties are also foreseen for lack of required qualifications. A person operating a boat that requires a high-speed license without the appropriate certificate may be fined NOK 7,500.
The boat owner will also be held responsible if they allow someone without the required qualifications to operate the vessel. The regulations do not provide for a transition period.
The regulations will apply to both owners and users of watercraft. Stricter penalties are also foreseen for lack of required qualifications. A person operating a boat that requires a high-speed license without the appropriate certificate may be fined NOK 7,500.
The boat owner will also be held responsible if they allow someone without the required qualifications to operate the vessel. The regulations do not provide for a transition period.
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