Latvia will ban the import of a number of categories of goods from Russia and Belarus

The Latvian government has approved a bill that provides for a ban on the import of a wide range of goods produced in Russia or Belarus. This was announced on July 14 by the Baltijas Balss portal.

The restrictions include books, newspapers, video games, sporting goods, toys, as well as clothing and shoes. The document prepared by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic on behalf of the Cabinet of Ministers suggests amendments to the law on support for the civilian population of Ukraine. The main objective of the initiative was to reduce Riga's economic ties with Moscow and Minsk.

The ban will affect not only direct shipments from Russia and Belarus, but also imports of these products through third countries. At the same time, the restrictions will not apply to the transit of these goods through Latvian territory to other EU states.

According to the publication, the Latvian Foreign Ministry stated that the purpose of the bill is to reduce the income of Russia and Belarus from exports. The ministry stressed that the measure is aimed at strengthening national security and should complement the existing EU sanctions and trade restrictions.

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