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The programme is here! This Monday, seven British chambers of commerce come together in Riga for the first Baltic–Nordic BritCham Forum.

What can businesses across the region do together on defence and security, workforce skills, energy and finance? That’s the question behind our four panels, with time for audience Q&A and networking throughout the day.

We’ll open with remarks from British Ambassador Kathy Leach, Mayor of Riga Viesturs Kleinbergs and BritCham Latvia Chair Gordon Latimir, followed by a keynote from Edward Lucas.

After the final finance panel, Anne-Marie Martin, Director of Membership UK & International at the British Chambers of Commerce, will give the closing keynote and invite representatives from our partner chambers to share what they’re taking away from the day.

It’s a fitting way to round off 30 years of BritCham Latvia and begin a new chapter of regional cooperation.

📅 Monday, 9 November 2026
📍 Wellton Riverside SPA Hotel, Riga
☕ Registration and welcome coffee from 10:00. The Forum starts at 10:30.

See the full programme in the attached PDF.
🎟️ Tickets: https://fienta.com/baltic-nordic-britcham-forum-2026

Thank you to our main sponsor Cardaq, our panel sponsors Eversheds Sutherland Bitāns and Signet Bank, and the British Embassy in Riga for its support.

Download the full programme (PDF)

On 9 September, a full conference hall at the Radisson Blu Daugava Hotel brought together members and guests of AHK, AmCham Latvia, BritCham Latvia, NCCL and SCCL for the joint pre-election debate Latvia at a Crossroads: Strategic Opportunities for Global Investors.

Representatives of seven political parties — Arvils Ašeradens, Artūrs Butāns, Andris Kulbergs, Jūlija Stepaņenko, Ainārs Šlesers, Andris Šuvajevs and Viktors Valainis — took part in a direct and lively discussion moderated by Vladlens Kovaļevs.

The debate addressed three areas that will be critical to Latvia’s development during the next parliamentary term: security, resilience and industrial capacity; human capital and talent development; and competitiveness, fair competition and investment.

Foreign investors are not merely observers of Latvia’s development. They are employers, taxpayers, innovators and long-term partners whose decisions directly influence the country’s growth and prosperity. Their experience offers valuable insight into how Latvia’s policies and institutions work in practice — and where greater predictability, transparency and efficiency are still needed.

This is why the voice of the international business community matters. A competitive investment environment cannot be built through policy documents alone. It requires open dialogue between businesses and political decision-makers, as well as a willingness to address difficult questions about regulation, workforce availability, energy security, public-sector governance and long-term economic direction.

It was one of the hottest days of the autumn — and at times, the temperature inside the debate hall rose as well. The discussion was energetic, opinions differed and difficult questions were asked. This is precisely why such conversations are necessary, particularly as Latvia approaches the next Saeima elections.

We thank all the candidates, moderator Vladlens Kovaļevs, our partner chambers, VA Government | Rud Pedersen Latvia and everyone who joined the debate. By creating a shared platform for dialogue, Latvia’s bilateral chambers continue to ensure that the experience and priorities of the international business community are heard when decisions about the country’s future are being shaped.

Gallery of the event is available HERE

On 24 January 2026, BritCham Latvia proudly hosted its traditional Burns Supper at the Radisson Blu Daugava Hotel, opening BritCham’s 30th anniversary season with an evening rich in Scottish heritage, elegance, and shared purpose.
Welcomed on the red carpet, guests arrived dressed in black tie, evening gowns, tartan, and Highland dress, creating a refined and festive atmosphere from the very first moments. Burns Night once again proved why it is regarded as one of Riga’s most distinguished and beloved annual social events.

The evening was expertly led by our Master of Ceremonies, Gordon Latimir, Chairman of the Board of BritCham Latvia, a proud Scot whose confident guidance, wit, and deep respect for tradition set the perfect tone throughout the programme.
One of the true highlights of the evening was the Tribute to the Haggis — a cornerstone of every Burns Supper. This year’s haggis was masterfully prepared by our beloved chef Andrejs Kilgisovs and ceremoniously piped into the ballroom by our piper Alan McGeachie, accompanied by whisky porter Aldis Celms. The moment captured the spirit of Burns Night in its purest form, blending theatre, tradition, and celebration.

We were honoured to welcome HMA Kathy Leach as Patroness of the celebration, marking her first Burns Night in this role during her posting. Her presence added special significance to the evening and underlined the strong ties between the British community and Latvia.

Guests were also treated to an unexpected and delightful musical surprise by Zemessardzes koris “Stars”, led by conductor Ārijs Šķepasts. Their performance, including a piece featuring lyrics by Robert Burns, added depth and emotion to the programme and was warmly received by all present.

Charity remains at the heart of Burns Night. Through raffle ticket purchases, a charity auction, and generous donations, guests supported the BritCham Charity Fund. We are proud to share that over EUR 13,000 was raised — a record-breaking result that will support the Charity Fund’s work throughout 2026. A special acknowledgement goes to Kully Singh’s table, recognised as the Most Generous Table of the evening.

We also thank Ieva Broka for presenting an overview of the BritCham Charity Fund projects delivered over the past year, clearly illustrating the real impact of the Fund’s work and the importance of continued support. Further appreciation goes to artist Ina Kantiķe, who generously donated her painting, which was auctioned during the evening in support of the charity cause.

The programme was enriched by thoughtful and engaging speeches from Irina Sennikova, Eric Lebreton, and Annie Sirois, adding reflection, humour, and insight to the celebration. The dance floor came alive thanks to our dance callers Helen Barker and James Cree-Hay, who guided guests through the Scottish dancing moves and steps with confidence, ensuring that everyone felt welcome to take part.

Burns Night 2026 was a powerful reminder of how tradition, community, and generosity can come together to create something truly special. BritCham Latvia extends its sincere thanks to all guests, partners, speakers, performers, donors, and supporters for helping keep this cherished tradition alive in Latvia.
We look forward to welcoming you at future BritCham events, and to celebrating Burns Night once again on 23 January next year. 🥂

This Christmas, BritCham Latvia, in cooperation with Daile Theatre, is launching a meaningful charity initiative to support Ukrainian children who continue to face the daily hardships and uncertainty of war.

We are working directly with our partners in Ukraine — the Kyiv City Centre for Social Support of Children and Families — who have provided a list of the items most needed this winter. We warmly invite our members to choose one or more items from the list below and bring them to the BritCham office.
Every contribution brings real comfort and hope to a child in need. 💙✨

We extend special thanks to Juris Žagars and Trudy Žagare, who will personally deliver a van filled with your donations to Kyiv before Christmas. A personal message from Juris, sharing more about this campaign and Daile Theatre’s work in Ukraine, is available HERE.

Items Needed

Food: porridge, flour, pasta, juice boxes, children’s vitamins, baby food
Hygiene: diapers (size 6+), disposable bed pads, children’s bedding & single bedding, pillows, blankets, towels
Christmas gifts: sweets and universal toys

❗️Please do not gift-wrap donations — all items must be declared at the border.

Where to Bring Donations

British Chamber of Commerce Office
Alunāna iela 5
(British Embassy Building)
Attn: Kristīne Zvirbule

Delivery Deadlines

• Please bring donations by: Wednesday, 17 December

• Transport to Ukraine: Friday, 19 December — ensuring the items arrive before Christmas

Thank you for helping make this Christmas warmer, brighter, and kinder for children who truly need our support.

On 8 September, the Board of the British Chamber of Commerce in Latvia had the pleasure of attending a warm and welcoming lunch hosted by His Majesty’s Ambassador, Ms Kathy Leach, at the UK Ambassador’s Residence in Riga.

This introductory meeting took place in a friendly and open atmosphere and served as a valuable opportunity to connect and exchange ideas. HM Ambassador Ms Leach expressed her genuine interest in close cooperation with British businesses in Latvia and reaffirmed her support for BritCham Latvia’s activities and operations.

We are truly grateful for her time, openness, and commitment to fostering strong UK-Latvia business relations.

On behalf of all of us at BritCham Latvia — welcome, HM Ambassador Kathy Leach! We wish you a successful, productive, and fulfilling posting in Latvia.

We are proud to announce that BritCham has joined as an official information partner of the Baltic Capital Markets Conference 2025 – one of the leading forums for capital market developments in the region.

Date: 27 November 2025
Venue: Atta Centre, Riga

This prestigious conference will gather industry leaders, investors, entrepreneurs, and policymakers to discuss key trends and the future of capital markets across the Baltics. As an information partner, BritCham is excited to help amplify the reach of this important event and strengthen dialogue within the business community.

Exclusive Benefit for BritCham Members & Partners

Through our partnership, we are pleased to offer our community a 10% discount on ticket purchases.

• Early Bird price: €275 (available until 9 September 2025)

• Get your ticket here: Register Now

• Promo code: BRITCHAM_BCMC10

Why Attend?

• Engage with leading experts and thought leaders

• Gain first-hand insights into capital market developments

• Network with investors, entrepreneurs, and policymakers shaping the future of the Baltic region

BritCham is delighted to contribute to this platform that fosters collaboration, knowledge exchange, and new opportunities for business growth.

On Thursday, 29 May, BritCham Latvia, in cooperation with the Financial Intelligence Unit of Latvia and the British Embassy Riga, hosted a high-level seminar titled “Navigating Sanctions Compliance” at the FIU premises in Riga.

The event was opened and moderated by Gordon Latimir, Chairman of the Board of BritCham Latvia. Philip Barclay, Deputy Head of Mission at the British Embassy, delivered opening remarks, underscoring the importance of international collaboration in ensuring effective sanctions enforcement.

The seminar featured expert presentations by Rebekah Tabone, Regional Sanctions Attaché (Baltics), and Paulis Iļjenkovs, Deputy Head at FIU Latvia. Attendees received timely updates and practical insights on:

• Enforcement actions and recent prosecution trends

• UK sanctions developments and regulatory changes

• Legal clarity on exemptions (e.g., pharmaceuticals)

• Trade data and signs of potential circumvention

• Coordination among the UK, EU, and US on sanctions policy

A lively Q&A session followed the presentations, allowing participants to engage directly with the speakers on current challenges and compliance strategies.

BritCham Latvia is proud to facilitate this ongoing dialogue, helping businesses stay informed and prepared in a fast-evolving global sanctions environment.

On the morning of April 23rd, BritCham Latvia had the honour of hosting another exclusive Platinum  Breakfast, graciously held at the British Ambassador’s Residence. The event was warmly hosted by His Majesty’s Ambassador Paul Brummell and Mrs. Adriana Ivama Brummell, whose hospitality created the perfect setting for meaningful conversation and connection.

We were pleased to welcome our esteemed Platinum Members, including:

• Dmitrijs Latiševs, BluOr Bank

• Jeļena Buraja, Rietumu Banka

• Laima Eglīte, Eversheds Sutherland Bitāns

• Ģirts Apsītis, Vitol Baltics

• Trudy Žagare, King’s College

• Kully Singh, Singh’s Restaurant

Also in attendance were Gordon Latimer, Chairman of the Board of BritCham Latvia, and Kristīne Zvirbule, Executive Director of BritCham Latvia.

The morning was marked by open dialogue and insightful discussions around the current economic climate in Latvia, as well as broader global challenges. These valuable contributions reflect the strength and depth of knowledge within our Platinum community and reaffirm the importance of such gatherings.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated and contributed to the conversation. A special thanks to Ambassador Brummell for continuing to support and champion the Platinum Breakfast tradition.

The Platinum Breakfast is an exclusive event, offering Platinum Members the unique opportunity to engage in high-level discussions in an informal setting with the British Ambassador and other distinguished guests. These gatherings continue to serve as a vital forum for knowledge exchange, networking, and collaboration.

On the morning of 8th April, BritCham Latvia was pleased to host an exclusive and engaging breakfast meeting with Mārtiņš Kazāks, Governor of Latvijas Banka, at the Grand Hotel Kempinski in Riga.

In a candid and forward-looking discussion moderated by BritCham Chair Gordon Latimir, Mr. Kazāks shared his views on Latvia’s economic direction, priorities for Latvijas Banka following his recent reappointment, and pressing issues both locally and internationally.

A significant part of the conversation focused on the broader economic landscape — including the implications of the newly announced U.S. tariff regime, which comes at a time of increased global uncertainty. Mr. Kazāks also provided insight into how Latvia and the EU are navigating this shifting environment and touched on longer-term themes such as the development of the digital euro.

In addition, Mr. Kazāks emphasized the importance of openness and dialogue, underlining Latvijas Banka’s commitment to engaging with businesses — especially those in the financial sector — to ensure a fair and supportive regulatory environment.

The Q&A session that followed allowed attendees to raise questions on a wide range of topics, creating a lively and informative exchange between the Governor and BritCham members.

We would like to sincerely thank Mārtiņš Kazāks for his time, insights, and openness, and all our guests for joining us for this valuable morning of discussion and networking.

Today, on March 21, 2025, BritCham Latvia held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the Residence of the British Ambassador in Riga. This important gathering brought together our members to reflect on the past year, discuss future initiatives, and elect a new Board to lead BritCham into the next phase of its development.

We are pleased to announce that Dace Cīrule, Owner and Lawyer at LarkLaw Legal Office, has been newly elected to the Board. We also congratulate Kalbinder Singh Srai, Robin Poynder, and Gordon Latimir, who have been re-elected for another term.

Additionally, we are delighted that Trudy Žagare (King’s College Latvia), Paul Nicholas Barratt (Barratt Equestrian Centre), Gaļina Zilgalve (RISEBA University), and Ieva Broka (Ieva Broka & Partners SIA) will continue their work on the Board, ensuring continuity and strategic leadership for BritCham.

Following the elections, the Board unanimously elected Gordon Latimir as Chair, with Kalbinder Singh Srai and Robin Poynder serving as Deputy Chairs. Their leadership will be instrumental in strengthening BritCham’s role in the Latvian business community, fostering British-Latvian business relations, and creating new opportunities for collaboration.

We extend our sincere thanks to all BritCham members who participated in the AGM, cast their votes, and continue to engage in Chamber activities. Your support is what makes BritCham a thriving and dynamic organization.

A special thank you to HMA Paul Brummell, the British Ambassador to Latvia, for his sincere hospitality in hosting this year’s AGM at the Ambassador’s Residence. We truly appreciate this generous support, which made the event even more special.

With a dedicated and experienced Board in place, we look forward to an exciting and productive year ahead, full of new initiatives, meaningful connections, and valuable opportunities for our members.