Latvia bans imports of books, toys, and clothing from Russia and Belarus

Latvia’s parliament, the Saeima, on [date] passed amendments to the law on support for Ukraine’s civilian population that prohibit the import of a list of goods produced in Russia and Belarus. Sixty-six deputies voted in favor, eight against, and eight abstained.

The full list of restricted items is to be approved by the government, but according to local media, it will include books and periodicals (primarily in Russian), video games, sports equipment, toys, clothing, and footwear. The draft was prepared by Latvia’s Foreign Ministry, the news outlet Delfi reported.

The ban applies not only to direct imports from Russia and Belarus but also to supplies routed through third countries. Transit of such goods across Latvian territory to other European Union states remains permitted, sources noted.

During parliamentary debates, Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Braže argued that Russia uses books and periodicals for propaganda purposes, saying this is “not needed by Latvia or the EU.” Authorities acknowledged the new restrictions could raise prices in some sectors but said all affected goods can be replaced by products from other countries.

Politicians also noted that the law does not entirely prevent Russian and Belarusian products from reaching the Latvian market: if a good has already been imported into another EU country and is in free circulation, Latvia cannot restrict its movement within its territory under single-market rules. For this reason, officials in Riga described the measures as a “political signal” and urged partners to reduce trade with Russia and Belarus.

Since 2022, Latvia’s imports from Russia and Belarus have fallen by 91%. In 2022, the volume exceeded €2.1 billion; by 2025 it had dropped to €193 million, less than 1% of the country’s total goods imports. The products targeted by the new ban account for about €12.5 million, or 6.5% of imports from Russia and Belarus.

By March 1, 2027, and annually thereafter, Latvia’s cabinet must assess whether the ban continues to serve the security of Latvian society and support for Ukraine.