Havila Kystruten AS has paused spending on car-transport modifications not yet underway as Norway weighs a shorter post-2030 contract for the Bergen–Kirkenes route, which the company says weakens investment support for its climate goals.
In an Oct. 27 statement, Havila said Norway’s 2027 budget proposal, presented Oct. 7, calls for a contract lasting four to five years after 2030, down from 10 years under current agreements. The existing contract runs through 2030 and would remain unaffected. The proposal would retain daily calls at 34 ports and seek more capacity for cargo and private-car transport; 11 vessels currently serve the route, according to the company.
Havila had planned to modify ships to carry cars at every port during scheduled maintenance. The work was intended to prepare the fleet for the next contract period. The company has now put investment on hold for vessels where modifications have not begun. Havila’s summary of the proposal says climate requirements beyond existing law would apply only if their implementation costs are justified.
Havila says the shorter proposed term makes it harder to fund its plans for climate-neutral operations in 2028 and zero emissions starting in 2030. It links those goals to long-term agreements, continued investment and predictable framework conditions. Havila plans to review the targets once the final terms are established.
Havila says a contract lasting four to five years would make growth in commercial markets outside the coastal route increasingly important. It sees opportunities in those markets and says its vessels were designed for use beyond the route. The company also plans to take part in discussions with authorities about the next contract’s duration and climate requirements.
Parliament is expected to decide on the proposal in December 2026. If lawmakers retain the framework, Norway is expected to hold the next tender in 2027.
