Riga Airport to become Latvia's first hub for exporting live animals by air

Riga Airport is poised to become a significant hub for exporting live farm animals by air, a capability previously unavailable in Latvia. The Latvian government has approved regulatory changes that designate the airport as an official export point for livestock, opening doors for the first-ever air cargo of animals like cattle from the country.

The initiative stems from growing interest from businesses aiming to develop livestock exports from the Baltic region to third countries, with Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan identified as key destinations. Early projections indicate a substantial volume of trade, potentially reaching several thousand head of cattle by the close of this year.

While specific details on the airlines involved and the exact logistics are still emerging, the move signals a new chapter for agricultural trade in Latvia. The airport's new role is expected to streamline the export process for breeders and traders, facilitating access to new markets and boosting the agricultural sector's reach.