LO and NHO prepare for critical labor negotiations in Norway

Norwegian labor organizations LO and NHO are preparing for upcoming discussions on several critical issues following a period of intense wage negotiations and strikes. Key upcoming topics include the follow-up of the IA-agreement, a cooperation between the government and employers to reduce sick leave, and reforms to the AFP (contractual pension) scheme. LO leader Kine Asper Vistnes noted that while discussions can become heated, the parties remain committed to cooperation.

In a separate development, NHO Mat og Drikke and the Norwegian Union of Food and Beverage Workers (NNN) reached a mediation agreement regarding the collective agreement for mills and feed mills. The settlement, which avoids a strike, includes a general wage increase of 6.50 NOK and an increase in the minimum hourly wage to 236.09 NOK, effective May 1, 2026. The agreement also addresses the advance payment of sick pay, stipulating that companies must establish specific side agreements regarding these payments by April 1, 2027.