Middle East Conflict Impacts Latvia's Agriculture and Energy Sectors
The ongoing Middle East conflict is expected to influence agriculture and energy costs in Latvia, with rising prices for food and fuel. The Economics Ministry suggests a VAT rate reduction to alleviate financial pressures on citizens amid anticipated long-term high gas prices.
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Latvia anticipates rising food and energy costs due to disruptions linked to the Middle East conflict. The Economics Ministry highlighted the region's role in ammonia and nitrogen production, key for synthetic fertilizers, affecting local agriculture.
The Climate and Energy Ministry reported that the Incukalns gas storage facility currently holds six terawatt-hours (TWh) of gas, while high gas prices may lead to increased electricity prices during winter. To address rising costs, Latvia will temporarily reduce excise duty on diesel fuel by approximately 15% from April 1 to June 30, 2026.
Additionally, the ministry is exploring support measures for municipalities in energy purchases. The ongoing situation may prompt more lasting changes in energy consumption patterns.
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