Latvia Bans Import of Goods from Russia and Belarus Starting September 1

Starting September 1, Latvia will impose a ban on the import of a wide range of industrial goods from Russia and Belarus, including products imported through third countries. The new regulations were adopted by the government on August 25, following the Saeima's support for the ban at the end of July. The restrictions apply to printed materials, clothing, footwear, toys, and sports equipment. The ban will affect goods of Russian and Belarusian origin imported through other countries. The government explains the decision as being in the interest of national security and aims to reduce revenue for Russia and Belarus from exports. These measures complement existing EU sanctions and Latvia's national bans on the import of energy resources and food products from these countries. The European Union is also planning to introduce a new package of sanctions against Russia in the coming months.