The Second-hand Success Story: Norway’s Secrets for Vietnam’s Future Triumph
The purchase of pre-owned items is a common practice in Norway, and it has been further encouraged by the Second-Hand Trade Act of 1999, which has played a significant role in reducing environmental impact by diverting used goods from landfills and into the retail market. Promoting Sustainability through Legal Reform Recognizing the need to adapt, Norway amended the Second-Hand Trade Act by relaxing certain regulations. This move aimed to boost the country’s circular economy and encourage entrepreneurship among its citizens. However, despite a subsequent amendment in 2015, the act faced criticism for creating obstacles for businesses dealing in second-hand goods, including clothing, furniture, electronics, and sports equipment. These concerns led to the most recent revisions of the act, which came into effect on July 1, 2024. The updates addressed the growing environmental challenges associated with textile production and consumption, as evidenced by the significant import of cloth...