Latvia bans imports of some Russian and Belarusian goods from 1 Sept
The ban covers printed matter, clothing, textiles, footwear, headgear, toys, games and sports equipment. It also applies when the goods arrive from third countries.
On 25 August 2026 the Cabinet of Ministers approved regulations banning the import into Latvia of a range of industrial goods originating in Russia and Belarus. The ban takes effect on 1 September 2026 and runs until 1 July 2027, with an annual review.
The list covers printed books, newspapers and other printed matter, clothing, made-up textile articles, footwear, headgear, toys, games and sports equipment. Crucially, the ban follows the origin of the goods, not the route: goods of Russian or Belarusian origin may not be imported even when they arrive from a third country.
The legal basis is an amendment to the Law on Support to Ukrainian Civilians passed by the Saeima on 23 July 2026. Transit of such goods through Latvia to other countries remains permitted — the ban applies to release for free circulation.
Who this affects
Importers and online stores buying in the listed categories. Estimates cited during the parliamentary debate put the affected trade at roughly €12.5 million a year. Supply chains routed through third countries are worth a close look: an intermediary in another jurisdiction does not change the origin of the goods.
What to do
Check whether your product range falls into the listed categories and confirm the country of origin with your supplier — the origin, not the country of dispatch. Review any orders that will still be in transit after 1 September. The exact list of tariff codes is set out in the regulations as published in the official gazette — for borderline items, check the published text or ask customs.
Source: Latvijas Ārlietu ministrija, 25.08.2026