Norway daily smoking rates fall to 6 percent

New statistics from Statistics Norway (SSB) show a significant decline in daily smoking habits across the country. In 2026, only 6 percent of the population reported smoking daily, down from 7 percent the previous year. This decline is driven largely by women, whose daily smoking rate dropped from 7 percent to 6 percent, while the rate among men remained stable at 7 percent.

While smoking rates have hit historic lows, the use of snus (smokeless tobacco) remains high. Approximately 15 percent of the population uses snus daily, with usage among men reaching 22 percent. This means daily snus use is now more than double the rate of daily smoking.

Data suggests that Generation Z (born 1997–2012) may be the first generation without a significant portion of daily smokers, as only 1 percent of those aged 16 to 24 smoke daily. However, health advocates from LHL have expressed concern regarding the shift toward nicotine dependence through snus and other products, calling for a generational ban on the sale of tobacco and nicotine products to those born after 2010.