Latvia: Russian Grain Transit More Than Triples as Government Prepares Restrictions

Russian grain transit through Latvia reached 1.115 million tonnes in January–October 2026, more than three times the volume recorded during the same period last year, according to the State Revenue Service. The total has already substantially exceeded the 652,000 tonnes transported throughout 2025.

October was particularly busy, with 425,000 tonnes passing through Latvia, compared with 346,000 tonnes in September.

Following a protest in Jēkabpils on 7 November, Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs promised legislation that would prevent new contracts for Russian grain transit. The proposal has not yet become law, and the treatment of existing contracts remains an important question.

Latvia’s transport sector faces a potential loss of freight business, while the government must also consider contractual and budgetary consequences. The proposed restrictions could affect railway operators, ports and cargo-handling companies.

Source: Latvian Public Broadcasting, 5 November | 7 November