From October 21 to 23, the Federation of Food Companies of Latvia (LPUF), in cooperation with the Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA), organized a visit of foreign food buyers to Rīga and the regions as part of the Latvian Food Forum (Latvijas Pārtikas forums), strengthening the export capacity and international recognition of Latvia’s food industry.
Over the course of three days, 19 foreign food buyers from the Nordic countries and other parts of Europe visited Latvia to meet individually with 14 Latvian food producers and tour their facilities. In total, more than 130 business meetings, tastings, and company visits took place, allowing foreign partners to experience first-hand the quality, innovation, and professionalism of Latvian food producers.
The goal of the event was to strengthen Latvia’s bioeconomy sector by helping local producers more effectively enter export markets.
“This is an important step in the development of Latvia’s economy – the opportunity to meet potential buyers in one place and start cooperation discussions is much more valuable than separate visits abroad,” emphasized Ināra Šure, Chair of the LPUF Board. “We thank LIAA for its support in promoting food sector exports! It is important to summarize the results of this event and continue similar initiatives in the future.”
Latvian entrepreneurs who participated in the forum also shared positive experiences. Bruno Ansons, Chairman of the Board of SIA “Cannelle Bakery,” stated: “Buyer visits are an excellent way to promote Latvia’s visibility and companies’ export potential. Face-to-face meetings in the food industry are always more valuable than remote communication. The format is very appropriate – it allows concentrated meetings with representatives of various countries and companies with matching needs and interests.”
Meanwhile, Uldis Rudmiezis, head of SIA “Livonia,” added: “Such forums are very useful, as there is interest abroad not only in our “Mežezeri” but also in other Latvian beverages with great export potential. It would be worthwhile to organize such meetings regularly.”
Participants agreed that the event was organized at a high level and delivered tangible results, encouraging Latvian producers to take more active steps toward export development and to strengthen cooperation with European markets.
Photo: Latvian Food Forum 2025
