Not only the Sea

The region of Bergen represents one of the most complete maritime clusters in Europe, having international expertise in many fields. The main strategy for economic development is to advance some selected industries that represent strong regional clusters with a potential for growth and success.

The selected priority areas are: tourism, fishery and fish-related industries, maritime industry, information and communication technology, oil and gas, research, education and culture. Within each priority area a network organisation has been selected to follow up the strategy for economic development. These organisations are to operate as links between industry/business and local authority. Located on the coast, the city's links with the sea have always been important. Bergen is often referred to as the gateway to the fjords. There are more than 200 cruise ships calls each year, which attract tourists from all over the word. The sea fish resources provide food and income. Export of fish was the most important trade for several hundred years and contributed to the development of international shipping, which influenced the development of shipping industry.

Bergen has world-leading expertise in marine research. The Bergen-region is the main area for fish farming in Norway. The marine sector is forecast to be the most important industry in Norway in the near future. One of Norway's national economic challenges is to find alternative areas of growth after the "petroleum adventure". But still oil and gas resources on the Norwegian continental shelf west of Bergen are key factors in the economic development.

The city accommodates about 28.000 students. Most important are the University of Bergen, Norwegian School of Economics and Business Administration, and Bergen University College.

Culture is also an area of priority for the municipality of Bergen. The city has produced many well-known composers and musicians. The Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, the oldest in Europe, and the Bergen International Festival, the largest annual event in Norway, both placed Bergen well and truly on the world cultural map. Norway's first permanent theatre, Den Nationale Scene, was founded in Bergen in 1850. Additionally, "traditional" music and culture of Bergen has significantly contributed to contemporary art and pop music. In 2000 Bergen was given the status of the European City of Culture.