Key facts
- Latvia has banned imports of Russian and Belarusian books, newspapers, video games, clothing, toys, and sporting equipment.
- The ban applies to goods not already covered by EU sanctions.
- The law aims to cut economic ties with Russia and Belarus and support Ukraine.
- The restrictions are intended to limit the spread of Kremlin propaganda and disinformation.
- The ban will remain in effect until July 1, 2027.
Latvia's parliament has approved amendments to its law that will ban the import of a wide range of consumer goods from Russia and Belarus, including books, newspapers, video games, clothing, toys, and sporting equipment. This national ban targets products not already subject to EU sanctions, aiming to further sever economic ties with Moscow and Minsk and combat the spread of Kremlin propaganda.
The amendments to the law on Support for the Civilian Population of Ukraine state that the importation of these specific goods is prohibited to ensure Latvian society's security and support Ukraine. The restrictions apply to goods originating in Russia and Belarus, even if imported via third countries.
Lawmakers argue that these products can be used to disseminate propaganda and disinformation. Raimonds Bergmanis, Chairman of the Defense, Internal Affairs and Corruption Prevention Committee, stated that these amendments are a tool to systematically reduce economic ties while maintaining support for Ukraine. In 2025, imports of these newly targeted goods from Russia and Belarus amounted to €12.5 million, representing 6.5% of Latvia's remaining imports from those countries and a mere 0.05% of its total imports.
The legislation was drafted by the Foreign Ministry as part of a broader government effort to eliminate remaining trade links with Russia. Minister of Economy Viktors Valainis has previously called for a complete refusal policy regarding goods from Russia. The final list of banned products will be determined by the Cabinet of Ministers. The law is set to take effect upon promulgation and will remain in force until July 1, 2027. Foreign Minister Baiba Braže has been a vocal proponent of ending remaining economic ties with Russia by the end of 2026 and has urged other EU member states to consider similar measures.