Latvia blocks imports of Russian and Belarusian books to curb propaganda

Latvia became the first European nation to forbid the import of Russian and Belarusian consumer goods, specifically targeting books, newspapers and other printed materials, as part of a broader effort to fight Kremlin disinformation. The foreign ministry explained that the ban, which started on 1 September, is intended to safeguard national security and further diminish economic links with the two countries, which it says continue to back the war against Ukraine.

The prohibition also covers clothing, toys and sports equipment, reflecting a comprehensive approach to reducing vulnerable imports. Riga has reported ongoing hybrid attacks, including cyber-intrusions and propaganda, and has invested heavily in defensive measures. The policy follows earlier steps such as eliminating VAT benefits for Russian-language publishing and reducing Russian-language instruction in schools. Overall imports from Russia and Belarus have dropped about 91% since the conflict began, but printed media remained a significant remaining category.