Updated figures from General government revenue and expenditure show a large increase in revenue, while the expenditure has a moderate increase. This contributes to a substantial surplus in general government.
Increased petroleum revenue
The increased revenues so far in 2022 are mainly due to an increase in petroleum revenue. Petroleum tax revenues are now at an all-time high. Dividends and withdrawals from petroleum companies owned by the state are also rising, contributing to the increase in surplus.
Expenditure
Total expenditure has had an increase of 5.2 per cent from 2021Q2 to 2022Q2. Compensation of employees, social benefits and use of goods and services are the biggest components of expenditure. Spending on social benefit has contributed most to the increase, which in large parts is due to an electricity support package towards households. On the other hand, subsidies and current transfers have decreased, which lessens the expenditure growth.