Overview

Computer hardware comprises a significant share of the Latvian ICT market.  Although the locally produced software development sector has significantly increased its role in Latvia’s economy (including exports) during recent years, foreign-sourced software continues to be important.

Leading Sub-Sectors

The best prospects for U.S. computer hardware exports to Latvia include new personal computers with the latest processor versions, small and medium multi-processor servers, multimedia equipment, LAN accessories and relevant computer parts, and Internet protocol-related equipment.  Second-hand and overstock personal computers continue to represent a significant market niche.  The principal consumers of these products in Latvia are private individuals who purchase computers for home use.  Recent studies show that there is also a growing demand for business management software among medium and large enterprises in Latvia.  Another potential growth sector is cybersecurity software, as cyber threats and businesses’ cyber security awareness increase.

Opportunities

Please note opportunities in the Supplement to the Official Journal of the European Union dedicated to European public procurement and the Latvian Export and Import Directory

Retail opportunities include software and hardware for home and business use.  We expect a stable supply of government computer hardware and software tenders as Latvia’s budget situation improves.  There are also opportunities for companies that want to use Latvia as a logistical center for distribution in northern Europe and CIS countries.  Considering the relatively low cost of production and well-educated workforce, computer companies could also consider placing production lines in Latvia.  The success of enterprises such as ELKO grupa (the largest Latvian ICT wholesale company), HansaMatrix, Mikrotik, and Ubiquity Networks demonstrate the viability of such plans.

Resources

• Latvian Electrical Engineering and Electronics Association
• Latvian Information Technology Telecommunication Association
• Latvian Investment and Development Agency