You don't know a lot about Norwegian politics on this subject if you'd even suggest that. In short it's a way for the government to limit and control the damage

You don't know a lot about Norwegian politics on this subject if you'd even suggest that. In short it's a way for the government to limit and control the damages associated with alcohol consumption. While this would probably rub the average american the wrong way, most norwegians, including myself, approve of the system. Other posters have given more detail but here is some reading: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vinmonopolet#Foundation https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vinmonopolet#Foundation https://www.vinmonopolet.no/social-responsibility https://www.vinmonopolet.no/social-responsibility