Latvia Imposes A New Ban On Goods From Belarus

• 25.08.2026, 20:46

Starting September 1.

Starting September 1, Latvia will ban the import of certain industrial goods from Belarus and Russia. The restrictions will apply to items such as books, newspapers, clothing, shoes, toys, games, and sports equipment, according to Delfi.

On August 25, the Latvian government confirmed the exact date the restrictions would take effect. Earlier, at the end of July, the Saeima had approved the corresponding decision.

The list of prohibited goods includes printed books, newspapers, and other printed materials; clothing and other finished textile products; footwear; headwear; toys; games; and sports equipment from Belarus and Russia. The ban will also apply in cases where goods of Belarusian or Russian origin are imported from third countries.

It is noted that the purpose of the ban is to protect Latvia’s security interests, reduce Russia’s and Belarus’s ability to generate revenue from goods exports, and limit the entry of Russian propaganda materials into Latvia.

As a reminder, Latvia had previously expanded its ban on the import of agricultural products and animal feed from Belarus and Russia. In August, the country’s government also supported the development of new restrictions on food products. The list may include candy, chocolate, cookies, sauces, instant soups, soft drinks, and beer. These restrictions are also planned to be extended to goods of Belarusian and Russian origin that are imported via third countries.

According to Latvian authorities, from 2022 to 2025, the value of imports from Belarus and Russia fell by 91%—from 2.129 billion to 193 million euros. The new restrictions will be reviewed annually to assess their effectiveness.