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
Riga, Baltic nature & authentic city life
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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.
Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs said on June 3rd he was happy with the initial signs from the new four-party coalition government headed by Andris Kulbergs (United List).
On 1–2 June 2026, the regular meeting of the E-PINE (Enhanced Partnership in Northern Europe) format took place in Tallinn and Narva, Estonia, bringing together representatives of the Baltic States, the Nordic countries, and the United States of America (USA). Latvia was represented by Juris Poikāns, Ambassador-at-Large, according to a release from the Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The new cabinet of Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs will meet not once but twice per week, reports Latvian Television.
Saeima debates are the most visible elements parts of parliamentary work, but how important are they in reality? Some members of the Latvian parliament take the podium hundreds of times during a four-year parliamentary mandate, while others don't bother to speak at all, despite the fact that there are only 100 deputies in total.
As expected, a new four-party coalition government was approved by Latvia's parliament, the Saeima, on Thursday, May 28th.
Representatives of the political parties forming the new coalition – the United List (AS), the National Alliance (NA), New Unity (JV), and the Union of Greens and Farmers (ZZS) – signed a coalition agreement and a declaration on the government’s planned activities on Thursday morning, LSM.lv reports.
The Union of Greens and Farmers continuing to lead the Ministry of Agriculture is unacceptable, stated Andris Šuvajevs, the leader of the opposition faction Progressives, on Thursday, May 28, on the Latvian Television programme Morning Panorama.
May 27th saw Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs presenting Latvia’s highest state award – the Order of the Three Stars – to Don Bacon, a member of the U.S. Congress House of Representatives and long-time co-chair of the Baltic Caucus.
Outgoing Prime Minister Evika Siliņa (New Unity) said on May 27th that the first cracks in her three-party coalition appeared over the stance to be taken on the Council of Europe Convention on Preventing and Combating Violence against Women and Domestic Violence, or the so-called Istanbul Convention.
Not only must Latvia select a new Prime Minister, but also the highest-ranking public official – the Director of the State Chancellery. The two previous holders of the position were forced to step down. Jānis Citskovskis is already on trial, while criminal proceedings have been initiated against Raivis Kronbergs. Now a successor must be chosen for this important position, Latvian Television reported on May 26.
Prime Minister candidate Andris Kulbergs (United List) has officially announced the composition of the incoming government on Tuesday, May 26. This has also been confirmed by President Edgars Rinkēvičs.
President Edgars Rinkēvičs met with prime ministerial nominee Andris Kulbergs (United List) on Monday, May 25th to hear his proposals about forming a new government following the resignation of Prime Minister Evika Siliņa (New Unity) and the collapse of her three-party government.
Andris Kulbergs of the United List (AS), the candidate for prime minister nominated by the President, will go to Rīga Castle on Monday, May 25, to present the composition of the new government, Latvian Television reported on May 24.
Foreign Minister Baiba Braže has said that Latvia's allies are fully aware that Russia is spreading disinformation about drone-related incidents in the Baltic states – though the Foreign Ministry continues to publish repeated public rebuttals of Russia's claims.
In the latest poll of political parties by the research center SKDS, the biggest changes this time around have not occurred at the top of the ranking, but in the positions behind the leader and around the five percent threshold that is required to win seats in Latvia's parliament, the Saeima. Moreover, the data continues to show very tight competition between several parties.
Several politicians who might have thought about campaigning in the upcoming elections on a tough law and order ticket might have to redraw their plans after falling foul of the law themselves.
While another drone incursion warning remained in force on Thursday afternoon in eastern districts of Latvia, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued its latest statement in response to Russian disinformation efforts.
The Saeima 'Parliamentary Inquiry Commission on Problems in National and European Union-Level Immigration Regulation and the Work of Executive Bodies' said on May 20th it has adopted a final report, which will be forwarded for consideration by the wider Saeima session.
On Thursday, May 21, the Rīga City Council decided to revoke the mandate of council member Aleksejs Rosļikovs, the former leader of the "For Stability!" party, who has fled to Belarus. 41 council members voted in favour of revoking his mandate.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada and the Foreign Ministers of Estonia, Lithuania and Latvia were due to meet in Tallinn, Estonia for the fourth Canada–Baltics “3+1” Foreign Ministers’ Meeting on May 20th.
Armands Krauze, leader of the Union of Greens and Farmers (ZZS) and former Minister of Agriculture, promises to take legal action if Prosecutor General Armīns Meisters does not retract his statements against Krauze regarding the so-called timber industry case, according to Latvian Radio and the portal LSM.lv.
The shape of Latvia's potential new government coalition became more apparent on Wednesday with a four-party model looking likely to take a five-month mandate.
On Wednesday, May 20, the Ropaži Municipality Council dismissed Mayor Signe Grūbe and her deputy Renāte Gremze (New Unity/Progressives), according to the Progressives party. Deputy Mayor Aivars Draudiņš (United List), who is the only candidate, has already been nominated for the mayor's position, LSM.lv reports.
Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs on Wednesday called on the public to stay calm and not rise to Russia's repeated attempts at intimidation.
When the Saeima was discussing a few years ago whether parties should be allocated more state money, the other Baltic states were cited as an example. They provided funding ten times more generously. Now Latvia has not only caught up with its neighbours, but has even overtaken them.
On May 19th, the Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned a Russian diplomat yet again over the latest blatant misinformation disseminated by that aggressor state.
Igors Rajevs, Parliamentary Secretary of the Ministry of the Interior, has submitted his resignation but will continue to serve as a member of the parliament, LETA reports on May 19.
If Prime Ministerial candidate Andris Kulbergs (United List), manages to form a government, the state budget could be reviewed as early as June, Kulbergs indicated on the Latvian Radio program "Labrīt" (Good Morning) on May 19th.
The state has failed to ensure a reasonable balance between the ability to register a business and the protection of property rights, Ombudsman Karina Palkova has concluded, according to the newswire LETA.
The smell will be unbearable, the roads will be damaged, and the local community will gain nothing from the project – these are just a few of the criticisms that Lēdurga residents voiced on the evening of Tuesday, June 30, at an informational meeting regarding the plan to expand the biogas plant.
The Children's Clinical University Hospital (BKUS) has committed to raising the age limit to 25 years in the future, said Valts Ābols, chairman of the BKUS board, in an interview on the Latvian Television program “Morning Panorama” on July 2.
In Rīga, Rītabuļi Forest, a woman who was shot while out for a walk on March 4 was injured near a military facility where training exercises were taking place that day, Latvian Radio reported on July 1.
Despite having for many years touted its green credentials as a leading user of renewable energy sources, in the first quarter of 2026 Latvia was decidedly mid-table when it came to renewables.
On July 10 and 11, the 12th edition of the "Lampa" Conversation Festival will take place in Cēsis. Over the course of two days, festivalgoers can look forward to hundreds of conversations, discussions, and other events.
The Health Inspectorate has completed its investigation into the actions of doctors at Stradiņš Hospital after a woman was shot while walking in the Rītabuļļu Forest in early March, Latvian Radio reported on July 1.
The Ministry of Defence and the National Armed Forces (NBS) will learn from their mistakes and, going forward, will also pay greater attention to private events by informing the public about low-altitude overflights by military transport aircraft, according to remarks made by Defence Minister Raivis Melnis on the Latvian Radio program “Good Morning” on July 1.
To strengthen Latvia’s preparedness to provide food to its citizens in the event of a crisis or a threat to national security, the government on Tuesday, June 30, endorsed a report prepared by the Ministry of Agriculture (ZM) on the allocation of nine million euros in funding to establish national food reserves.
An organised group that was selling cigarettes without excise stamps in Latvia has been dismantled, Latvian Television reported on June 30.
Latvia gained yet another entry in its grim drowning toll on Tuesday with the death of a young woman at a popular swimming spot in Jēkabpils.
A ceremony took place on Tuesday in the twin border cities of Valka (Latvia) and Valga (Estonia), to mark the 1st German–Dutch Corps (1GNC) taking over tactical command of the Estonian and Latvian armed forces.
Shortly before 4 p.m. on Tuesday, June 30, a fire broke out in an industrial building on K. Ulmana gatve in Rīga's Torņakalns suburb, the State Fire and Rescue Service (VUGD) said.
Four elementary school-aged children fell ill with salmonellosis in April and May after consuming “Reeva” instant noodles in their dry, uncooked form, according to the Center for Disease Prevention and Control (SPKC).
On June 29, two three-year-old girls wandered off unsupervised from the “Pasaulīte” preschool in Bauska. A resident spotted the children and immediately notified the appropriate authorities, according to the Bauska Municipality.
A Latvian citizen has been sentenced to 5 years and 6 months in prison for spying on behalf of the Russian military intelligence service (GRU), as well as one year and eight months of probation, the prosecutor’s office reported on June 30.
Starting July 1, 2026, residents will no longer have to pay the pharmacist’s service fee when purchasing prescription medications that cost no more than 10 euros per package – the state will cover it, according to a release by the Ministry of Health.
The hot weather, which many people enjoy, has unfortunately caused health problems for children, seniors, and those suffering from chronic illnesses. Some people suffering from dehydration have also been admitted to hospitals, Latvian Television reported on June 30.
A cable break should not halt medication dispensing, notes the cybersecurity institution "Cert.lv" in its analysis of the "e-health" system outage that occurred over the weekend, Latvian Television reported on June 29.
In central Rīga, on her way home Saturday evening, a woman was sexually assaulted, most probably by foreign men. The woman managed to escape only after a passer-by intervened, Latvian Television reported on June 29.
In recent years, children and young people have increasingly come to the attention of European law enforcement and security agencies in connection with various types of offences related to radicalisation and violence, the State Security Service (VDD) told the LETA news agency on June 29.
Vita Klubure, acting head of the Asylum Seeker Accommodation Division at the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (PMLP), has taken over as director of the “Mucenieki” Asylum Seeker Accommodation Centre, the office confirmed on June 29.
Over the years, peony collector Silvija Jaundžeikare has built up an impressive collection in Vidriži, Limbaži Municipality, featuring rare and particularly valuable varieties. Silvija revealed to the Latvian Television program “Morning Panorama” on June 29 how this passion began and why she can’t stop, even though she’s already growing 700 varieties of peonies in her garden.
On Sunday, yachts, boats, and other watercraft gathered on the Daugava River not only to cool off in the hot weather but also to celebrate the centennial of sailing in Latvia. The highlight of the celebration was an attempt to set a Guinness World Record in the category "Most People Blowing Fog Horns Simultaneously," Latvian Television reported.
This weekend, State Emergency Medical Service (NMPD) personnel have responded to several calls involving people who have experienced various health problems due to the heat, Latvian Radio reported on June 28.
Demand for unmanned technologies continues to grow not only in the military sector but also in the civilian sector. The drone industry in Latvia is developing autonomous systems for maritime, land-based, and even underwater applications and increasingly emphasising the need to train and prepare new drone pilots.
In Liepāja and other coastal cities in Latvia, the presence of seagulls is becoming increasingly noticeable. The birds have become so bold that they often steal food and damage business property. While residents and merchants seek solutions, the Nature Conservation Agency (DAP) emphasises that fighting the consequences will not help and that the main focus should be on preventive measures, TV Kurzeme reports.
Andželika Allika, head of the Asylum Seekers’ Accommodation Division at the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (PMLP), will no longer head the “Mucenieki” asylum seeker accommodation centre starting next week, though she will continue working at the office, the LETA news agency reported.
Three persons have been convicted of robbing a luxury watch store in Old Rīga as part of an organised group; they were sentenced to various terms of imprisonment ranging up to six years and eight months, with probation supervision and deportation from Latvia, along with an eight-year entry ban.
A young woman was treated at the Children’s Clinical University Hospital after using a weight-loss product purchased online, according to the State Agency of Medicines (ZVA), which urged the public to purchase medicines only from licensed pharmacies and licensed online pharmacies.
Two children have drowned in Latvia in recent days – on Thursday, a 16-year-old teenager lost his life in a quarry in Grobiņa Parish, according to the State Fire and Rescue Service (VUGD).
The State Police found the man on Friday who had left the National Mental Health Centre without authorisation, the police reported.
Hot weather is drawing more and more vacationers to the water, but accident statistics point to serious safety issues. Experts warn that many tragedies could be prevented through cautious behaviour and timely risk assessment, Latvian Television reports on June 25.
The Ministry of Defence will deploy additional air defence systems in the near future, Defence Minister Raivis Melnis said following a meeting of the Military Council and a meeting with the heads of local governments in the eastern border region on June 25.
Thirty-two drunks in twenty-eight beds – that is the situation in the Addiction Treatment Department of the National Mental Health Centre following the long Midsummer holiday weekend. Doctors, however, expect that the largest influx of patients is yet to come, Latvian Television reported on June 25.
During the holiday weekend, border guards in the Augšdaugava Municipality and Daugavpils detained nine offenders transporting individuals who had crossed the state border illegally, according to the Border Guard.
The name of Latvian film director Jānis Streičs will henceforth be found not only in Latvia’s cultural history, but also on maps of the Solar System, according to the University of Latvia's Institute of Astronomy.
Young people should no longer be in school at the age of 19, said Ilze Indriksone (National Alliance), Minister of Education and Science, on the Latvian Radio programme “Krustpunktā” on June 25.
A cyberattack has been carried out against the information technology infrastructure of “Latvian State Forests” (Latvijas Valsts meži, LVM), the company confirmed to Latvian Radio on June 25.
As the weather becomes summery and warm, AS Latvian State Forests (Latvijas valsts meži, LVM) reminds the public that active mineral quarries are not intended for swimming or recreation near the water and are dangerous. Active quarries can be identified by the informational signs posted nearby.
When the summer school break begins, some children head to camps. Both overnight camps and day camps are available throughout Latvia. Before sending their children to camp, parents should check that the camp has all the necessary approvals, Latvian Television reported on June 25.
A year ago, the Rēzekne Municipality confirmed its readiness to co-finance a project worth more than 1.3 million euros to reconstruct the Lūznava Wooden School into a cenre that would offer new services and activities to young people, seniors, and people with functional disabilities. However, the project has now been put on hold, LSM's Latgale editorial reports.
Alpaca farming has carved out a niche in Latvia’s rural tourism sector. Although these animals are native to the Andes Mountains in South America, alpacas are becoming increasingly common here as well. One of the largest alpaca farms in Latvia's southeast is located in Bebrene Parish, Augšdaugava Municipality, Vidusdaugava regional television reported on June 24.
This year’s Midsummer holiday brings not only several days off but also summery weather. However, this has had tragic consequences, as several people have drowned in Latvian bodies of water in recent days, Latvian Television reported on June 24.
Almost every year before Midsummer, we hope that this time the holiday news will be free of tragedies. However, once again, the long holiday weekend in Latvia has been marred by grim statistics. The holiday weekend has claimed the lives of several people on the roads, in the water, and in a fire, Latvian Television reported on June 24 evening.
Nearly one-third, or 32%, of drivers admit that they sometimes get behind the wheel after drinking alcohol, according to data from the “Carlsberg 0.0 Responsible Driving Index”.
Hot coals and grill surfaces in the summer can result in an unpleasant burn. Meanwhile, another dangerous situation can arise while grilling and eating meat: choking. Miķelis Puķītis, chief specialist of the First Aid Training System Organisation Department at the Emergency Medical Service (NMPD), explained how to provide first aid in such cases.
More than ten cubic metres of hot water, damaged infrastructure, and the safety of young people at risk. The Sigulda-based company Adven Latvija, which provides centralized heat supply throughout the city, reports that several young people gained access to the heating system and released water from the pipes, Latvian Television reported on June 22.
The Ministry of Health’s (VM) planned reform of the hospital network promises to address a long-standing problem – inconsistent quality of care in hospitals. Several cases have come to the ministry's attention in which the quality of care provided was so poor that specialists in Rīga had to correct mistakes made by lower-level hospitals, Latvian Television reported on June 21.
The State Fire and Rescue Service (VUGD) had already recovered the bodies of four people from bodies of water over the weekend as of Monday, said the State Fire and Rescue Service.
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 %.
The coalition parties have agreed to maintain the reduced excise tax rates on diesel fuel until the end of this year, Finance Minister Māris Kučinskis told the LETA news agency on Monday following a meeting of the coalition parties.
On Saturday, June 6th, during the annual meeting of the Board of Governors of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) in Rīga, the Finance Ministers of Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania, together with EBRD President Odile Renaud-Basso, signed a memorandum of understanding on further cooperation in the development of a single Baltic capital market.
The Rīga City Council has amended the catering procurement contract for schools and kindergartens after two companies challenged the green criteria regarding organic food and delivery distance. As reported by the Latvian Television programme "De Facto," organic farmers are concerned that this could make it harder for organic food to reach children’s menus.
Next Biogas SIA, a subsidiary of the Dutch HoSt Group, will build a biomethane production plant in Lēdurga, Sigulda Municipality, for 26.8 million euros, and on Friday, the company signed a loan agreement with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) to implement the project, LETA reports.
Two cash-strapped Latvian municipalities received contrasting verdicts on their financial stabilization efforts on June 4th.
Latvia's State Treasury (Valsts Kase, VK) said on Thursday that it has raised a billion euros on the international financial markets with a bond issue.
Central Statistical Bureau data (calendar adjusted at constant prices) published on June 4th show that in April 2026 Latvia's industrial production output increased by 7.0 % year-on-year.
The government will still have to assess whether to maintain the reduced excise tax rate on diesel fuel after June 30, as its price has now stabilised, Finance Minister Māris Kučinskis (United List) said in an interview with Latvian Radio on June 4.
Amid fears that drone alerts and international tensions are depressing tourist numbers in the Baltic states, the latest Eurostat figures show a mixed picture.
On Tuesday, June 2, the first hybrid energy park in Latvia, developed by renewable energy company "Vindr," was officially opened in Līvāni municipality.
Latvia retains one of the European Union's largest proportions of people working in agriculture, according to the latest Eurostat statistics.
According to the Central Statistical Bureau (CSB) data published on May 29th, gross domestic product (GDP) in Latvia increased by 2.5 % in Q1 2026 (at constant prices, seasonally and calendar non-adjusted data).
Evidence is growing that recent events near Latvia's eastern border – repeated drone incidents, regular airspace threat warnings, mobile phone alerts, NATO fighter jets being scrambled – are having serious consequences for the tourism industry, reports Latvian Radio.
The importance of the summer season to Latvia's tourist trade is underlined in fresh Eurostat figures.
Fresh Eurostat data show Latvia having the second highest at-risk-of-poverty (AROP) rate in the European Union (EU) in 2025.
The Ministry of Agriculture (ZM) and the management of the joint-stock company "Latvian State Forests" (Latvijas valsts meži, LVM) have not ensured sufficiently effective oversight of the company, according to a State Audit Office audit published on May 21, which also assessed the 2023 government decision to provide support to timber processors.
In the fourth quarter of 2025, the average price of fertilisers and soil improvers in the EU rose by 8.0% compared with the same quarter of 2024, according to latest Eurostat data.
Approximately 61,000 customers in the municipalities of Alūksne, Preiļi, Daugavpils, Jēkabpils, Smiltene, Sigulda, and Ķekava, as well as in parts of Rīga, experienced a temporary power outage on Tuesday afternoon due to a technical malfunction, according to electricity distributor AS "Sadales tīkls."
According to Central Statistical Bureau data on tourist accommodation, published on May 18th, in the first quarter (Q1) of 2026 arrivals at Latvian tourist accommodation establishments totalled 447.1 thousand and the number of nights spent comprised 779.1 thousand, which is 3.0 % less than in Q1 2025.
SIA "East-West Transit" has suffered minor losses in connection with the drones that crashed at its oil storage facility in Rēzekne on May 7, the company confirmed to LSM. The company did not specify the extent of the losses but said that the facility would close.
On Wednesday, 13th May, members of the Saeima Committee on Economic Affairs, Agriculture, Environment, and Regional Policy voiced criticism and did not support the proposed solidarity contribution for fuel retailers.
The data of the Central Statistical Bureau (CSB), published on 12th May, show that in April 2026, compared to March 2026, the average level of consumer prices increased by 0.6 %. Year-on-year, the figure in April was 2.9%.
Central Statistical Bureau (CSB) provisional data published on May 11 show that in March 2026, Latvia had a foreign trade turnover of EUR 4.09 billion, and at current prices, it was 8.9 % higher than a year ago.
The hostilities in the Middle East are already affecting fuel prices and fueling concerns about further increases in energy and food costs. Ministries are already preparing potential support scenarios, but one thing is clear: unlike during the Covid-19 era, broad benefits for everyone are not being promised, Latvian Radio reports on 11th May.
Central Statistical Bureau calendar-adjusted data at constant prices, published May 7, show that in March 2026, industrial production output increased by 9.5 % year-on-year. Output in manufacturing rose by 4.4 % and in electricity and gas supply by 34.6 %, whereas in mining and quarrying it fell by 21.5 %.
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.
Forecasts indicate that Wednesday will be the coldest day of the week in Latvia.
The drought continued in Latvia during the first ten days of May, with the most severe conditions in the Talsi and Ventspils regions, according to data compiled by the Latvian Environment, Geology and Meteorology Centre.
Forecasts indicate that this week the weather will remain moderately warm with occasional rain, but next week, Latvia will see more stable warm weather and the start of meteorological summer.
Forecasts indicate that the eastern part of Latvia will see cloudy weather with occasional rain over the weekend.
Forecasts indicate that frost is expected in some parts of Latvia tonight.
Last night saw significant rainfall in many parts of Latvia, but forecasts indicate that rain will continue only in the eastern part of the country as the day progresses.
Forecasters predict that the upcoming four-day weekend in Latvia will bring the warmest weather in the last seven months.
Forecasts indicate that rain is expected in some parts of Latvia on Thursday.
The period from September 2025 to March of this year was the second-driest on record in Latvia, according to data compiled by the Latvian Environment, Geology and Meteorology Centre.
Forecasts indicate that wind speeds in Latvia will decrease on Wednesday.
Forecasts indicate that the weather in Latvia will remain cool over the next few days, but will become significantly warmer in early May.
A wind turbine collapsed on Sunday in Bunka Parish, Dienvidkurzeme Municipality, as confirmed to the LETA news agency by Jānis Meisters, owner of SIA "Jaunmiki."
Forecasts by weatherman Toms Bricis indicate that Monday will be cool and windy in Latvia.
Cold air will move into Latvia on Sunday and linger into next week. Forecasters warn that strong winds and precipitation are expected on Sunday.
In the second half of this week, the weather in Latvia will turn cooler, with precipitation expected over the weekend; moreover, forecasts indicate that it will snow in many places on Sunday.