A few years ago, in Norway, anyone could shop clothes online from abroad, tax- and duty-free, as long as the basket stayed under NOK 350. This was clearly unfair and created a tilted playing field. The same shirt cost NOK 349 online and NOK 399 in a Norwegian store – a store that had real staff and a fitting room. But no customer stands in the fitting room thinking they should support fair competition rules in retail.
No One Wins Alone
The reason that loophole disappeared is that determined people worked persistently behind closed doors—in meetings with ministries, in consultations, and in committees. The Federation of Norwegian Enterprise was present in those rooms, speaking on behalf of independent retailers, pushing to abolish the 350-kroner rule—and succeeding. This shows that consistent effort does, in fact, make a difference. More importantly, it demonstrates that the most effective way forward is often to act collectively rather than alone.
Producer Responsibility
When Texcon joined the Federation of Norwegian Enterprise, it was with eyes wide open. We knew more battles were coming, and we wanted to be in the room when they happened—not watching from the sidelines.
Right now, the big issue is Extended Producer Responsibility. It could reshape everything for fashion retailers in Norway. Following the EU’s revised Waste Framework Directive (Directive (EU) 2018/851), Norway is preparing to introduce extended producer responsibility for textiles. In plain terms: producers and importers will be on the hook for garments long after they’re sold—including collection, sorting, recycling, and reporting.
Nobody knows exactly what the final directive will contain. But we do know this: if you want to influence the outcome, you need to be part of a voice that policymakers listen to.
That’s why Texcon, through the Federation of Norwegian Enterprise, has been a driving force in setting up TekstilPRO—a new non-profit company offering a shared solution for Extended Producer Responsibility in textiles. A system built for the realities of our industry, protecting our interests, and giving us a seat at the table.
Unfair Import Rules
Another fight is customs duty on clothing imports. Right now, foreign companies on the VOEC list pay no customs duty on shipments up to NOK 3 000. But Norwegian businesses must pay 10.7 percent duty on everything they bring in. That creates a massive competitive advantage for international e-commerce players and leaves Norwegian retailers at a disadvantage.
Stronger Together
Being part of Texcon means never standing alone. It means drawing strength from numbers—the resources and influence that come from representing many. The goal is simple: to make sure every Texcon member can continue to run a profitable, sustainable business. Not just today, but tomorrow as well.
