Latvia and Lithuania consider bans on Russian grain transit

Latvia and Lithuania are considering measures to restrict or ban the transit of Russian grain through their ports. The Latvian government is discussing a complete ban on Russian grain exports through its territory, while Lithuanian authorities have stated that using their port infrastructure for such deliveries is “inacceptable”. These potential restrictions could impact grain transit between the Russian region of Kaliningrad and other parts of the Russian Federation.

This move comes as Russian grain exporters redirect shipments from the Black Sea and Sea of Azov toward Baltic routes due to maritime and infrastructure challenges. Data shows that grain volumes handled in Baltic ports increased from 865,000 to 1.2 million tons in the first half of the year.

Separately, Latvia has implemented a ban on the import of books, newspapers, and other printed publications from Russia and Belarus, effective September 1. The Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated the measure aims to combat “desinformation and war propaganda” and protect national security interests. The ban also extends to various consumer goods, including textiles, footwear, toys, and sporting equipment, to further reduce economic ties with countries involved in the war against Ukraine.