Exploring the Impact of Governmental Export Subsidies

Abstract

Discusses the importance of government subsidies on the Norwegian export market. Highlights the strength of exports within Norway – 45% of GNP. Examines the various types of grant aid available and defines general and specific subsidies and centralized and decentralized subsidies. Outlines the grant application process. Describes a variety of types of export activities which have received subsidies. Explores sources of potential conflict between the firms applying for grants and the government. Concludes, inter alia, that: Size is an advantage when starting exporting or introducing new export activity; The initiative to apply for subsidies requires resources and insight; The perceived usefulness of export strategies varies across firms.