Latvia, officially the Republic of Latvia, is a country in the Baltic region of northern Europe. It is one of the three Baltic states, along with Estonia to the north and Lithuania to the south. It borders Russia to the east and Belarus to the southeast and shares a maritime border with Sweden to the west. Latvia covers an area of 64,573 km2 (24,932 sq mi), with a population of 1.83 million. The country has a temperate seasonal climate. Its capital and largest city is Riga. Latvians, who are the titular nation and comprise 65.5% of the country's population, belong to the ethnolinguistic group of the Balts and speak Latvian. Russians are the most prominent minority in the country, at almost a quarter of the population; 37.7% of the population speak Russian as their native tongue.
Source: tolatvia.com
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With just two months until the next parliamentary elections in Latvia, political parties will be examing the latest poll conducted by SKDS from July 10 to 15 on behalf of Latvian Television with keen interest.
Jānis Sārts, the director of the Rīga-based NATO Strategic Communications Centre of Excellence (STRATCOMCOE) said in an interview with Latvian Radio on July 31st that Latvia's upcoming parliamentary elections could face various challenges and attempts to influence and disrupt them, with threats including drone incursions, cyberattacks and the use of malicious Artificial Intelligence (AI).
In the pre-election period it is perhaps not surprising that many politicians are trying to polish their credentials as money-managers, calling for controlled spending, probes in NGO funding, a review of scientific research costs and various other fiscal discipline measures.
As previously reported, the building of the Latvian Honorary Consulate in Sloviansk was severely damaged in a Russian airstrike on July 24th. Now The "Entrepreneurs for Peace" Foundation, in cooperation with journalist Ieva Vārna, is launching a fundraising campaign to help Honorary Consul Oleksandr Pavenko equip new premises for the Latvian representation in the Donetsk region.
On Friday, July 24th, Russia carried out an airstrike on the city of Sloviansk in Ukraine's Donetsk region, which destroyed the building of the Latvian honorary consulate.
A fairly prominent candidate who was due to stand in the upcoming Latvian parliamentary elections has had his candidacy cancelled over his criminal record, reports the LETA newswire.
Starting today, July 23rd, voting at Saeima sessions is using a new electronic voting system, which replaces the outdated – but impressively still functional – voting machines that have been in use since 1997.
The right to vote is a fundamental right of a citizen in a democratic country. However, exercising this right is not always so easy for people with disabilities.
With a little over two months to go until the next parliamentary electionson October 3rd, the Cabinet of Ministers approved its action plan of the government led by Andris Kulbergs on Tuesday, July 21st – in effect rubber stamping its own plan two months after it came to power.
Latvia's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Baiba Braže, has returned from a large-scale meeting in Washington, D.C., called by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio the title of which was 'The Resurgence of Political Terrorism'.
Rēzekne City Council has approved changes to the auction rules for the lease rights of a spa complex [routinely rendered in Latvian as 'SPA' for reasons which remain opaque] at its July 17th meeting in a bid to get the enormous white elephant off its hands.
In the 15th Saeima elections, which are due to take place on October 3rd, there are fewer candidates standing in the eastern Latgale region than four years ago, and around one in four of those that are standing don't even live in the region.
Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs continues his two-day visit to Lithuania on July 16th, as previously reported.
Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Braže is in Washington, D.C. on July 15th and 16th "to attend a conference of foreign ministers hosted by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio," according to a brief release by the Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Just a couple of weeks after heading north to visit Estonia, on July 15th President Edgars Rinkēvičs is heading south to visit Latvia's southern neighbour and fellow Baltic state, Lithuania.
On Monday, July 13th, Minister of Defense Raivis Melnis met with Latvia's honorary consuls in Ukraine to present them with awards.
Russia, a country that is a serial offender with scant regard for rule of law, nevertheless intends to use international courts to drag the Baltic states through various inconvenient and costly legal processes, according to a new report by the Re:Baltica investigative journalism portal.
From 13th to 15th July 2026, the Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs will host the 12th Meeting of Latvian Honorary Consuls to provide updates on current issues in Latvian foreign policy, key security policy matters and opportunities for bilateral economic and cultural cooperation.
Diplomats from the Baltic states on Friday strongly rejected disinformation efforts of the Russian Foreign Ministry in Moscow.
The Central Election Commission (CVK) decided on Thursday to remove Jurijs Jesipenko from the list of candidates for the 15th Saeima election in the Rīga electoral district submitted by the political party alliance “Harmony Centre,” the CVK told the LETA news agency.
The government of Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs (United List) has fully completed three of a total of 61 priority tasks within a month, he announced at a press conference after a meeting to discuss the government's actions so far.
Rīga mayor Viesturs Kleinbergs (Progressives) defeated an attempt to force his resignation on Wednesday.
In highly unoriginal comments, Russian Foreign Ministry officials have said that the Baltic states are "playing with fire" by opening up their territory for "hostile actions" against Russia.
Four candidates for the 15th Saeima have indicated in their questionnaires published by the Central Election Commission (CVK) that they have collaborated with the security services, intelligence services, or counterintelligence services of the USSR, the Latvian SSR, or a foreign country, according to an analysis of candidate data conducted by LETA.
On Monday, July 6, the Saeima held a lottery to assign numbers to the lists of registered candidates for the 15th Saeima elections scheduled for October.
The pool of candidates registered for the 15th Saeima elections is smaller, older, and, based on formal education indicators, better educated than in previous Saeima elections, according to an analysis of Central Election Commission (CEC) data conducted by LETA.
As part of the State Visit of the President of Latvia, Edgars Rinkēvičs, to Estonia, the Latvia–Estonia Business Forum “Stronger Together” took place on 2nd July, at the National Library of Estonia in Tallinn, reports Labs of Latvia.
With exactly three months until Latvia holds parliamentary elections, political parties are jostling for position, according to the latest voter polling carried out for SKDS on behalf of Latvian Television.
The first signs of a breach in the system at AS "Latvijas Valsts meži" (LVM) cyberattack were detected as early as June 11, when suspicious activity was identified, while the actual malicious activities took place on the night of June 22–23, said Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs (United List) on July 2.
Today, July 1st, marks 10 years since Latvia joined the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the Latvian Foreign Ministry said in a reminder for the vast majority of the population who probably don't have the date marked on their calendars.
On 1st July 2026, Ireland takes over the presidency of the Council of the EU.
Recently-installed Defence Minister Raivis Melnis will not be standing in the upcoming Saeima elections on October 3rd, he confirmed to Latvian Radio on July 1st.
Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs will embark on a three-day visit to northern neighbour Estonia on July 1st.
Latvia's former president Egils Levits has been awarded Germany’s highest honour for his decades-long dedication and services to German-Latvian relations.
On Thursday, the Saeima adopted amendments to the Immigration Law in its final reading, which would prevent citizens of Russia and Belarus from obtaining temporary residence permits through the investment program for alternative investment fund managers. LETA reports.
On Thursday, June 18, the Latvian parliament, the Saeima, has its final sitting before summer recess.
The upcoming parliamentary elections this fall are being planned with the potential risk of air hazards in mind. Most polling stations will be located in municipal buildings, so the Central Election Commission (CVK) is asking local governments to provide information about shelter options at these locations, Vidusdaugava Television reports on June 16.
Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs (AS) has imposed a 30-day moratorium on large and expensive information and communication technology (ICT) procurements to review their necessity and procurement procedures, LETA reports on June 15.
Members of Latvia's parliament, the Saeima, can receive substantial compensation for expenses incurred in the performance of their duties, in addition to their wages, reports Latvian Television.
Digital election system development is going according to plan, said State Digital Development Agency (VDAA) on June 12.
On Thursday, June 11, the Saeima rejected in the first reading the proposed amendments to the Animal Protection Law, which would have banned the keeping of laying hens in cages with a transition period until 2032.
On Thursday, June 11, Latvia's parliament, the Saeima, adopted amendments to the Insolvency Law and related laws in the final reading, which liquidate the Insolvency Control Service and transfer its functions to the Ministry of Justice, the Court Administration and the Latvian Association of Insolvency Administrators. From now on, the Ministry of Justice will have to supervise insolvency administrators.
On Thursday, June 11, the parliamentary seats of former Prime Minister Evika Siliņa (New Unity) and two former ministers were reinstated.
The Prime Ministers of the Baltic and Nordic states are in Tallinn, Estonia on Tuesday for a meeting with Ukraine's outstanding President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, reports Latvian Television.
On June 8th and 9th, the delegations of the Foreign Affairs Committees of the parliaments of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania will meet with their counterparts from the Parliament of Türkiye in Tallinn, Estonia, to discuss the security situation and further support to Ukraine.
On Saturday, June 6th, the official pre-election campaign period for the 15th Saeima elections begins in Latvia, which will last until election day itself – October 3rd. The pre-election period runs for 120 days.
On 5–7 June 2026, the 35th Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and Business Forum will take place in Rīga at the Radisson Blu Latvija Conference Hotel, though with entertainment laid on and other meetings at venues such as the Dailes Theatre and Latvian National Museum of Art.
On Friday, June 5th, at a joint meeting of the Baltic Assembly (BA) Committees on Natural Resources and Environment and on Health, Welfare and Family Affairs, parliamentarians from Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania will seek solutions for a more comprehensive harmonisation of climate and health policies in the Baltic States, as well as discuss the implementation of joint measures to mitigate the impact of climate change on human health.
With the confirmation of the government led by Andris Kulbergs (United List), the composition of the 14th Saeima is also changing – several former ministers have returned to work in parliament, and some new members fill the seats of those who have become ministers.
With the slogan "Be More Baltic", the "Baltic International Security Centre" (BISC) think-tank was unveiled in Brussels on Wednesday, June 3, Latvian Radio reports.
The sole Latvian-Belarusian border control point "Pāternieki" is still closed on Saturday evening. Officials' explanation is that there are technical problems with the operation of information systems, as a result of which border control is not possible.
The head of Latvia's dedicated ani-graft agency, the Corruption Prevention and Combating Bureau (KNAB), Jēkabs Straume, has announced his surprise retirement just one year before the end of his second term.
From August 3rd to 14th, the military exercise “Baltic Trust 26” (BATT26), jointly organized by the Latvian National Armed Forces (NBS) and the NATO Communications and Information Agency, will be held at Sēlija military range in southern Latvia.
This summer, a battle has been taking place on the picturesque Jūrkalne cliffs against waste dumped by the Soviet army.
The Health Inspectorate issued a recommendation on 31 July that it is not advised to swim at Saldus Lake at the moment.
A financier who collaborated with the pro-Kremlin organisation “Baltic Anti-Fascists” appeared in court on Thursday. Jevgenijs Okss gathered information in Russia’s interests about two people living in Latvia; he also met with a representative of the Russian Federal Security Service in Moscow, Latvian Television reported on July 30.
In 2025, 27.5% of the EU’s population aged 16 or older were unable to afford one week of annual holidays away from home, according to Eurostat data published on July 30th.
The Minister for Economic Affairs, Viktors Valainis (Greens and Farmers Union), has approached the Saeima’s Committee on Defence, Home Affairs and Corruption Prevention with a call to launch a discussion on a new mechanism for immigration controls, the Economics Ministry said in a release on July 30.
On the evening of Tuesday, 28 July, Mārtiņš Bilzēns, a member of the Latvian mountaineering group who had been seriously injured, returned to Latvia from Alaska.
On Wednesday evening, the State Police in Aizkraukle arrested an off-duty police officer – a senior inspector – who, whilst under the influence of alcohol with a blood alcohol level of 3.18 per mille, caused a road traffic accident and subsequently fled the scene, the State Police reported.
Minister for the Interior Jānis Dombrava (National Alliance) is set to call for an internal investigation into State Police (VP) Chief Armands Ruks in connection with "various systematic breaches" in the State Police’s operations, including an incident in Priekule where a drunk police officer killed a man, notably whilst off duty.
On July 29th a former store security guard was led into a Rīga court in handcuffs, accused not only of espionage, but also of hooliganism and robbery.
Following the cancellation of singer Pitbull’s concert, which was due to take place on 29 July at the Mežaparks Grand Open-Air Stage, calls have been made on social media and other online platforms for people to gather at the planned concert venue nonetheless. The State Police point out that such calls are unlawful.
Estonian public media ERR News reports that Estonia will send additional police and border guard forces to Latvia to strengthen the European Union's external border.
In Latvia, just over 5,000 people have been officially diagnosed with dementia, but using internationally recognized methodology, it is estimated that the real number with the condition could reach as many as 38,000 [Data from the non-governmental organization “Alzheimer Europe”] according to a release from the Society Integration Fund (SIF).
Following the admission of a young woman to Kuldīga Hospital last September after suffering drug poisoning, the State Police arrested a man and launched an investigation, during which they discovered more than 100 drug dens in the forests around Jelgava and Jūrmala. The criminal case has been referred to the Prosecutor’s Office, the State Police reported.
Currently, a direct military, conventional Russian attack on NATO is not possible, and stating this is not just an attempt to calm public fears of conflict, Latvian Defence Minister Raivis Melnis said in an interview with the LETA newswire.
Following the tragedy in Priekule, the State Police might introduce alcohol tests at the start of the working day as a preventative measure, particularly for officers who carry a weapon or drive a service vehicle, Interior Minister Jānis Dombrava (National Alliance) said in an interview with Latvian Radio on July 29.
The “Tavi draugi” association is continuing its work, despite a potentially malicious fire last week in which a large proportion of the aid intended for Ukrainians was destroyed. Several businesspeople have offered the association premises, and the local council is also considering options. However, for the time being, volunteers are carrying on with their work in temporary tents, Latvian Television reported on July 28.
On Tuesday, the Government took note of a report from the Ministry of the Interior on the construction of infrastructure along the country’s eastern border. Work is scheduled to be completed by the end of this year, although the State Real Estate (VNĪ) plans to continue work on certain sections until the end of next year, Latvian Radio reported July 28.
Data on viral hepatitis published by Eurostat to mark World Hepatitis Day, observed each year on 28 July, comes with mixed news for Latvia.
On Tuesday 28 July, following lengthy discussions, the Government endorsed the hospital network reform drawn up by the Ministry of Health (VM), which provides for the introduction of three tiers of hospitals – local, regional and multi-speciality – from next year, replacing the current five-tier system.
In preparation for the new academic year, some higher education institutions are promising to tighten their entry requirements for international students from third countries, Latvian Radio reported on July 28.
In Kuldīga municipality, a woman unlawfully took more than 3,000 euros from a bank account from someone who had trusted her, according to the State Police.
In Latvia, over the last ten years, the amount of household waste per capita per year has increased by around 100 kilograms. The capacity of the Getliņi landfill site will, at best, be exhausted within the next ten years, Imants Stirāns, Chairman of the Board of SIA “Getliņi eko”, told the LETA news agency.
A total of 4,869 applicants – or 91 per cent of those wishing to enrol – have been accepted to study in Year 10 at Rīga municipal schools, whilst there are still places available at around 20 schools, the Riga City Council’s External Communications Department told the LETA news agency.
Following a complaint from the public regarding possible contamination by petroleum products in the Driksa, a tributary of the Lielupe River, the State Environmental Service (VVD) carried out an inspection and found a film characteristic of petroleum products, VVD said on July 28.
For many Latvian families, the start of the new school year in September brings not only the excitement of returning to school, but also significant financial and emotional pressure.
The police have launched criminal proceedings against a coach at the “Ogres novada Lāči” children’s and youth ice hockey club in connection with alleged sexual abuse of a child during a camp, Latvian Television reported on July 27.
The State Police officer arrested in connection with the murder of a man in Priekule has claimed that he cannot remember the incident, as stated on Monday evening by Armands Ruks, Chief of the State Police, on the Latvian Television programme “Panorāma”.
As in previous years, the most popular degree programmes among young people this year are medicine, healthcare, psychology and law. The University of Latvia received the highest number of applications through the Unified Admissions System – more than 28,000 in total.
An illegal cigarette factory, capable of producing around 1.5 million cigarettes a day, has been uncovered and shut down in the Grobiņa area, according to the Tax and Customs Police's release on July 27.
On Friday, 24 July, in Krāslava municipality, a people smuggler was arrested; he had used a replica of a Latvian Postal Service vehicle with forged number plates to commit his crimes.
After a dry spring, Latvia has been hit by frequent and sometimes very heavy downpours this summer – but that comes with potential hazards of its own, and not just flooding.
On Sunday, 26 July, Riga City Council received numerous enquiries from residents regarding an unusually large number of flying ants in various parts of the capital, the city council said in a release.
Over the weekend in Priekule, a drunk police officer killed a man whilst off duty, State Police spokesperson Madara Šeršņova told the LETA news agency.
From July 27th to 31st, the NATO Multinational Brigade in Latvia will be doing some drone training in the vicinity of Kausi, Daugmale parish, Ķekava district.
On Thursday, 30 July, the thermal company “Rīgas siltums” will be carrying out checks on the hydraulic safety of the heating network on the right bank of the Daugava; as a result, hot water will not be available in much of Rīga whilst these checks are taking place. The water temperature will begin to drop the day before, the company has announced.
Applications to the country’s largest universities have now closed. Among the prospective students are those who have voluntarily completed State Defence Service (VAD) and have thus secured a guaranteed place on a state-funded course. Universities worry that those who have completed VAD might fill all the state-funded places, leaving none for other promising students, Latvian Television reported on July 26.
Riga City Council has issued a warning about a possible sighting of a female bear with cubs in the Imanta area on Saturday, July 25th.
More than 30 migrants have been detained by police in Estonia's capital, Tallinn, in recent days, believed to be connected to a surge in illegal immigration at the Latvia-Belarus border, reports Estonian public media ERR News.
Violations of the proper use of the state language, Latvian, will in future be subject to stricter penalties, according to amendments to the law adopted by the Saeima on Thursday, July 23.
On July 23, the Minister of Economics, Viktors Valainis, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with a company founded in Latvia by the US company Native Trading LLC on the development of a full-cycle artillery production plant in Latvia.
The State Security Service has confirmed that it is providing support to the State Police in the investigation of the fire that occurred on the night of July 19th.
There has been a significant development in the story of an alleged sexual assault in central Rīga that was widely spread on social media, with many blaming it on migrants or asylum seekers.
The Crisis Management Centre of the State Chancellery has put together what is called a 'National Risk Catalogue'.
On July 21, the Entrepreneurs for Peace foundation opened a civil-military cooperation base in Rīga, which it said will be a meeting and cooperation place for entrepreneurs, state institutions, non-governmental organizations and the public to jointly strengthen Latvia's resilience and support Ukraine.
More than 50 days after a teenager died in a barn fire in Branti parish, Smiltene region , the family has not been able to bury their child. The parents are convinced that their son's bones are still scattered at the scene of the accident, and accuse the police of not searching the area thoroughly enough.
By the end of September this year, it is planned to equip the entire eastern border of Latvia with automated anti-drone systems, Defence Minister Raivis Melnis told the Latvian Television programme "Morning Panorama" on July 21st.
As the application process for studies at Latvian higher education institutions for the 2026/2027 academic year has concluded, the University of Latvia (LU) has received a record\-high level of interest from prospective students.
The state-owned company AS ‘Sadales tīkls’ (ST) will build two new substations in Saulkrasti and Saldus, as well as modernise the existing infrastructure in Salacgrīva, thereby enabling new electricity producers and consumers to be connected to the grid, the company announced on July 30.
The poultry farming company AS ‘Balticovo’ has invested more than two million euros in a staff apartment block project in Iecava, the company announced on July 29.
Calendar adjusted data (at constant prices) compiled by the Central Statistical Bureau (CSB) and published on July 29th show that, compared to June 2025, in June 2026 Latvia's total retail trade turnover rose by 4.8 %.
Just one day before the event, the concert by American musician Pitbull in Mežaparks has been cancelled. The hospitality sector is also already facing cancellations of bookings, whilst the Consumer Rights Protection Centre will be monitoring the situation to ensure that consumer rights are upheld, namely that the money spent on tickets is refunded, Latvan Radio reported on July 29.
The restrictions on the sale of alcoholic beverages, introduced a year ago, have not significantly reduced alcohol purchases, but have changed shoppers’ buying habits, with people adjusting the times at which they shop, according to retailers surveyed by the LETA news agency on July 29.
For the most part, Latvia has good potential for a grain harvest this year, although in many places the rain is currently delaying the harvest. The situation is better in Zemgale, Latgale and Vidzeme, but farmers in Kurzeme are currently facing the greatest difficulties, where the rainfall has also washed out roads in many places, Latvian Radio reported on July 28.
Until recently here were 12 "Mere" stores in Latvia, in Rīga, Liepāja, Tukums, Jēkabpils and other cities, but now they have been closed because one of Mere's owners - Russian businessman Sergey Schneider - is included in the European Union (EU) sanctions list.
In 2023, about 43% of EU farms reported having internet access. Some northern and central European countries such as Denmark, Germany, Slovakia, Latvia, Czechia, and Austria, had rates above 90%, according to Eurostat data published on July 24th.
Following a devastating outbreak of African swine fever (ASF) at the beginning of this year, SIA "Vaiņodes bekons" has gradually resumed operations at its pig farm.
In order to promote fair cooperation between agricultural and food suppliers and retailers, the Saeima on Thursday, July 23rd, supported amendments to the Unfair Trade Practices Prohibition Law in its final reading. The changes were approved by 81 votes to 0.
While Latvia may not have one of the largest economies in the European Union, it does at least still have the benefit of relatively low levels of public debt.
The Consumer Rights Protection Center (PTAC) has received a total of 4,116 applications in the first six months of 2026, which is 50.7% more than in the corresponding period last year, when 2,732 applications were received, it said in a release on July 20th.
The Latvian central bank, Latvijas banka (LB) published its latest Macroeconomic Projections Report online in English on July 16th.
The Consumer Rights Protection Center (PTAC) has concluded that recently-introduced changes to value added tax (VAT, or PVN in Latvian) rates on four food product groups (eggs, milk, fresh poultry meat and bread), have in general been applied fairly by retailers.
Central Statistical Bureau provisional data show that in May 2026 Latvia had foreign trade turnover of 3.86 billion euro, and at current prices it was 8.4 % higher than a year ago.
A loud noise, reminiscent of thunder, shook the Karosta neighbourhood in Liepāja on Wednesday evening. Although strong winds were battering the city in Kurzeme, the cause this time was different: during equipment testing at the Rapsoil wind farm, the blade of one turbine snapped and fell. The rotor is located on the outskirts of the city; no one was injured, TV Kurzeme reports.
The Ministry of Finance (FM) has updated its indicative medium-term macroeconomic and fiscal forecasts, taking into account the latest economic trends and the geopolitical situation. The forecasts indicate slower economic growth and higher inflation than projected in February of this year, the FM reported.
Work that used to take several hours in some places can now be completed in a matter of minutes. The electricity distribution network "Sadales tīkls" is increasingly using drones to inspect power lines, Latvian Television reported on July 8.
Starting next year, the tourist tax applicable in Rīga will increase. This was decided by city councillors on Wednesday, July 8th.
Central Statistical Bureau data published on July 8 show that in June 2026, compared with May 2026, the average level of consumer prices remained unchanged.
Latvia may have its attractions all year round, but as far as tourists are concerned, July and August are the months when they most want to visit, according to data published by Eurostat on July 7th.
A building inspector surveyed the collapsed structures of the future store in Zolitūde on Monday, and in mid-July, the causes will be known, Latvian Television reported July 6.
Central Statistical Bureau calendar adjusted data at constant prices published on July 6 show that in May 2026, Latvia's industrial production output increased by 6.2 % year on year.
In 2025, house sales in the EU increased in most countries for which data are available – including Latvia – compared with 2024, according to latest Eurostat data.
In the first quarter of 2026, house prices, as measured by the House Price Index, increased by 4.7% in the euro area and by 5.1% in the EU compared with the same quarter of the previous year. In the fourth quarter of 2025, house prices increased by 5.1% and 5.4% in the euro area and EU, respectively. These figures come from Eurostat, the statistical office of the European Union and were published on July 2nd.
Starting July 1, 2026, the value-added tax (VAT) rate on certain common food products will be reduced from 21% to 12%. The reduced VAT rate will apply to four basic food product groups: bread, milk, poultry, and eggs. The reduced rate will be in effect for one year until June 30, 2027.
According to Central Statistical Bureau (CSB) data published on June 30th, retail trade turnover in May 2026 was 3.3 % higher than a year ago (calendar adjusted data at constant prices) in Latvia.
The board of Rīga's municipal real estate manager “Rīgas nami” has resigned due to the crisis at the meat pavilion of Riga Central Market, the LETA news agency reported on June 29.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) has drafted amendments to the Law on Support for Ukrainian Civilians, providing for a ban on the import of certain industrial goods originating in Russia and Belarus.
Although retailers see potential in local berries and vegetables, the growers themselves point to several problems in the industry. It’s already clear that the berry harvest won’t be successful on all farms, Latvian Radio reported on June 28.
A decision on compensation for damages caused by drones or other military incidents will have to be made within a month, Minister of Justice Edvards Smiltēns (United List) said in an interview on the Latvian Television programme “Morning Panorama” on June 26.
The supply of early potatoes in the markets is increasing every week. Their price ranges from 1.60 euros to 3.50 per kilogram. Farmers say it is still too early to assess the upcoming harvest, as the situation varies by region, Latvian Radio reported on June 24.
One-third of the milk produced in Latvia, about half of the chicken, less than half of the local flour, and slightly more than 50% of the onions—that is the share of local products in some of the largest retail chains. Producers are raising concerns, but retailers argue that local producers cannot produce more and that seasonality also affects the situation, Latvian Radio reports on June 26.
The reduced excise tax rate on diesel fuel will remain in effect until the end of this year. This is provided for in the amendments to the Law on Limiting Price Increases for Petroleum Products, which the Saeima approved on Thursday, June 18.
On Thursday, June 18, the Danish renewable energy developer "European Energy" opened a solar park in Tārgale, Ventspils. The solar park covers a total area of 138 hectares, the company reported.
The Latvian central bank, Latvijas Banka (LB) said on June 16th it was revising its economic growth forecasts for the country downwards, amid continued international tensions.
In the first quarter of 2026, compared to the fourth quarter of 2025, housing prices increased by 1.2%, according to the latest preliminary data published by the Central Statistical Bureau on June 15th.
Researchers presented 2025 data at the Stockholm School of Economics in Rīga on Monday showing that Latvia's unofficial or 'shadow' economy actually grew last year.
Now that the U.S. and Iran have announced an agreement to end hostilities, there is hope that jet fuel prices will stabilise, said Andrejs Martinovs, chairman of the board of airBaltic, in an interview Monday morning on the Latvian Radio programme Good Morning on June 15.
More than one billion euros were issued last year in online loans, or quick loans, as well as in leasing and other non-bank loans, the Consumer Rights Protection Centre (PTAC) announced last week. Discussions continue as to whether this sector should be transferred to the supervision of the Bank of Latvia but the process is slow, Latvian Television's De Facto reported on June 14.
The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) has published a new OECD Economic Survey of Latvia, which runs the rule over the current state of the Latvian economy and its future prospects. These surveys are conducted every two years for all OECD member states, with this one launched on the occasion of Latvia’s 10th anniversary of joining the OECD.
How easy is it to start building a house in Riga? This was investigated by representatives of the LaSER think tank, who regularly monitor the development of Rīga and other Latvian cities. The experts concluded that the process is fragmented and that there are currently two spatial plans in effect in Rīga, Latvian Radio reported on June 12.
In the first quarter of 2026, the average price of agricultural output in the EU decreased by 2.9% compared with the same quarter in 2025. This was a slightly higher rate of decline than that of the last quarter of 2025 (-1.7%) according to data on agricultural price indices published by Eurostat.
According to the data of the Central Statistical Bureau (CSB), published on June 11, in 2025, residents of Latvia spent a total of EUR 1,799 billion on short trips around Latvia and abroad. Domestic tourism declined slightly last year, while the number of trips abroad increased.
On Wednesday, June 10, the new production complex of the egg production company "Balticovo" was officially opened in Iecava; approximately 120 million euros were invested in its construction, the company reported.
The State Construction Control Bureau (BVKB) inspected the Meat Pavilion at Rīga Central Market on Wednesday, and as of Thursday, June 11, it will be closed.
Following several drone incidents along Latvia’s border, a question has arisen: what would happen if an unmanned aerial vehicle damaged equipment, a building, or other property? While the government plans to introduce a compensation mechanism, it remains unclear how farmers would be protected in such cases, Latgale Regional Television reported on June 10.
To strengthen Latgale’s tourism industry, which has been negatively impacted in terms of revenue by frequent airspace alerts, the Ministry of Economics plans to reallocate 1.5 million euros to various tourism activities, according to Minister of Economics Viktors Valainis (Greens and Farmers Union) on the Latvian Radio programme "Good Morning" on June 10.
Central Statistical Bureau (CSB) provisional data published on June 9th show that in April 2026 Latvia had foreign trade turnover of EUR 4.13 billion, which at current prices was 12.6 % higher than a year ago.
The data of the Central Statistical Bureau (CSB) show that in May 2026, compared to April 2026, the average level of consumer prices increased by 0.5 %.
On Friday, by 3 pm, the air temperature at the Jelgava weather station in Staļģene reached +31.8 degrees, breaking the heat record for the last day of July.
Forecasts suggest that Friday will be the hottest day of the week.
Forecasts suggest that the weather in Latvia will become hotter on Thursday.
Forecasts indicate that rain and thunderstorms are expected in many parts of Latvia on Monday.
Intense rains on the evening of Monday, July 20th, caused damage in Talsi region, where the Dursupe mill lake overflowed and the water flooded the surrounding area and washed out local roads.
An orange (danger) warning has been issued across a large part of Latvia for violent storms which are expected to hit the country on Monday, July, 20th.
There will be heat, rain, and thunderstorms in Latvia over the weekend, but the weather will become colder next week, according to forecasts.
The weather in Latvia will be mostly sunny on Monday, according to forecasts, with a warm week to follow.
An orange warning (danger) for thunderstorms is in place for south-eastern Latvia on Sunday evening.
Starting Sunday, the weather in Latvia will become drier and warmer, and will often be even hot, according to forecasts by weatherman Toms Bricis.
Rain is expected throughout Latvia on Wednesday, with heavy rain in some areas; therefore, a yellow-level alert for heavy precipitation is in effect, according to the Latvian Environment, Geology and Meteorology Centre (LVĢMC).
Forecasts indicate that heavy rain is expected in Latvia in the middle of this week.
Forecasts indicate that the sun will shine in Latvia on Monday, but brief rain showers and thunderstorms are also expected in many areas, according to weatherman Toms Bricis.
Forecasts indicate that the weather in Latvia this weekend will be overcast with frequent rain.
Rain is expected throughout Latvia on Friday, with heavy rain and thunderstorms in some areas, according to forecasts.
The extreme heat of recent days is abating on Tuesday, though a yellow (potential danger) warning remains in place across a large section of southern and eastern Latvia.
Forecasts indicate that the heat will subside in the second half of this week.
Forecasts indicate that the weather in Latvia will remain hot on Monday.
Forecasters at the Latvian Environment, Geology and Meteorology Centre (LVĢMC) predict a very intense heat wave on Sunday.
Due to the expected heat wave, the Latvian Environment, Geology and Meteorology Center has issued an alert. A yellow alert will be in effect throughout Latvia on Saturday, while an orange alert will be in effect throughout Latvia on Sunday and Monday.
Forecasts indicate that a heat wave from Western Europe will reach Latvia on Saturday, according to LSM's weatherman Toms Bricis.
The post-holiday work week in Latvia will begin with fairly warm but cloudy weather; however, rain will fall only in some areas, according to the Latvian Environment, Geology and Meteorology Centre.
The Latvian Environment, Geology and Meteorology Centre forecasts brief showers in some areas on Midsummer’s Day.
Midsummer Night will be rain-free throughout Latvia, according to the latest forecasts.
Midsummer Week in Latvia will begin with dry and sunny weather, according to a forecast from the Latvian Environment, Geology and Meteorology Centre.
The longest day of the year, Sunday, June 21, will be hot, with thunderstorms in the afternoon, according to the Latvian Environment, Geology and Meteorology Centre.
Forecasts indicate that the weather in Latvia will be warm during the long holiday weekend, at times even hot and muggy.
Forecasts indicate that Friday will be mostly sunny in Latvia.
Forecasts indicate that the weather in Latvia will become significantly warmer during the long holiday weekend.
Forecasts indicate that the weather in Latvia will become windier but slightly warmer on Wednesday.
Forecasts indicate that the weather in Latvia will become significantly warmer in the second half of this week.
Forecasts indicate that brief rain showers and thunderstorms are expected in many parts of Latvia on Monday.
Rainy weather will continue in Latvia over the next few days, and no heat is expected, according to the Latvian Environment, Geology and Meteorology Centre.
Heavy rain is expected in Latvia on Thursday, according to the Latvian Environment, Geology and Meteorology Centre.
Rain is often expected in Latvia this week, according to forecasts.
A yellow (potential danger) alert has been issued across a large part of eastern and northern Latvia on Monday and Tuesday.
Forecasts indicate that it will rain in many parts of Latvia on Saturday, but Sunday will be sunnier, according to weatherman Toms Bricis.
Forecasts indicate that it will rain in many parts of Latvia on Friday.
Forecasts indicate that rain is expected more frequently in Latvia during the second half of the week, but the weather will remain warm.
Forecasts indicate that the weather in Latvia will be warm on Wednesday, with rain and thunderstorms expected in parts of Vidzeme.
On the first day of June, summer began not only on the calendar but also in nature, according to operational data from the Latvian Environment, Geology and Meteorology Centre.
The beginning of June will be warmer and rainier, according to the Latvian Environment, Geology and Meteorology Centre.
On Thursday, northwesterly winds will pick up again in Latvia, with gusts only slightly weaker than those experienced on Wednesday, forecasters warn.
On Wednesday, northwesterly winds across Latvia will intensify to 15–20 metres per second in gusts; the strongest gusts may uproot trees in some areas, forecasters warn.
On Monday, forecasters predict that westerly and northwesterly winds will pick up to 13–17 metres per second in Zemgale, Vidzeme, and Latgale.
Forecasters predict that there will be brief showers in many parts of Latvia on Friday, with heavy rain and thunderstorms expected in some areas.
Forecasters predict rain in many parts of Latvia on Thursday, with thunderstorms possible in some areas, mainly in the eastern part of the country.
On Tuesday, maximum temperatures in Latvia are expected to range from +11 to +14 degrees Celsius in Kurzeme to +20 to +24 degrees in Latgale and the eastern part of Vidzeme, according to forecasters.
Forecasts indicate that the weather in Latvia will be summery and warm in the second half of this week.
On Monday, precipitation will move across Latvia from the east – rain is expected across most of the country, but in some places there will also be heavy downpours and thunderstorms, according to the Latvian Environment, Geology and Meteorology Centre.