Norwegian households are feeling the pinch as food prices soar by 7.6% over the past year, far outpacing the general inflation rate of 3.6%.

Items like cooking chocolate have surged by 48.4%, with sugar and fresh fish also seeing significant increases.

Meanwhile, the debate over interest rates intensifies.

Despite earlier plans to cut rates, economists warn against it after February's unexpected inflation spike.

Professor Kjetil Storesletten calls a rate cut "irresponsible," arguing it could undermine the central bank's credibility.

Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre emphasized that rate decisions rest with Norges Bank, as the government begins budget talks focused on defense and economic stability.