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From NCCL

AS "Olainfarm" is rebranding to "Olpha" as part of their strategy to become one of Europe's top ten pharmaceutical companies.

Olpha aims to achieve a €1 billion turnover within the next decade, focusing on expanding its operations in Western export markets and developing a robust new product portfolio in the generic medication segment. The company is already making significant strides, with over 50 new generic medications approved and in the process of being registered in more than ten EU countries. These include treatments for cardiology, neurology, urology, oncology, diabetes, infections, and allergies.

The first sales of these new products in European Union markets are planned to begin this summer. As part of this aggressive growth strategy, Olpha has invested tens of millions of euros in product development, modernization of production facilities, and increasing production capacity.

The strategy includes approximately €100 million in investments by 2030 to dominate Western European markets. This initiative is set to transform Latvia from a medication importer to an exporter, positioning Olpha as a key player in the global pharmaceutical industry.

The strategic plan also emphasizes a greater focus on research and development, with Olpha adding new finished dosage forms and active pharmaceutical ingredients to its product portfolio annually. Additionally, the company plans a multi-stage international expansion into new markets in Western Europe, the Middle East, North Africa, and North America.

AS "Olainfarm" is rebranding to "Olpha"!

Vindr is building a leading renewable power producer in Northern Europe, offering solutions for the energy transition and enabling crucial energy independence utilizing advanced technology. The company is owned by Infravia, one of Europe’s largest infrastructure funds. Our projects encompass a range of renewable energy sources, including wind, battery, and solar. As responsible, long-term investors in our communities, we prioritize local needs in our development efforts. Our goal is to be close to consumers, reducing our environmental footprint and preserving nature.

Welcome to Vindr Latvia on joining NCCL as a Bronze category business!

A base of the airline "Norwegian" was opened at Riga Airport on April 30th. The establishment of a permanent base will strengthen the company's presence in Latvia. Riga Airport will serve as the base airport for 30 airline pilots and 60 flight crew members, providing direct connections to six destinations.

Norway is currently among the top 10 investors in Latvia and the 12th most significant export partner. With the opening of this base, new opportunities for economic cooperation are foreseen.

Norwegian has been represented in Latvia since 2005, with Riga being the company's largest market in the Baltics. Riga is an appealing destination for both tourists and business people, especially considering its UNESCO World Heritage status. Additionally, the presence of 10,000 Latvians in Norway and Norwegian companies being among the largest foreign investors in Latvia served as additional incentives for opening the base. Overall, there are 236 registered Norwegian companies in the country.

Furthermore, many travelers also use Riga for transit flights. The Norwegian Group is a leading aviation company headquartered in Fornebu near Oslo, with over 8,200 employees and owning two leading airlines in the Nordic countries: Norwegian Air Shuttle and Widerøe’s Flyveselskap.

Norwegian Air Shuttle is Norway's largest airline with approximately 4,700 employees, operating a wide network connecting the Nordic countries with major European destinations. In 2023, Norwegian transported more than 20 million passengers and operated a fleet of 87 Boeing 737-800 and 737 MAX8 aircraft.

Widerøe’s Flyveselskap is not only Norway's oldest airline but also the largest regional airline in Scandinavia, employing over 3,500 people. In 2023, the airline carried 3.3 million passengers and maintained a fleet of 48 aircraft, including 45 Bombardier Dash 8 and three Embraer E190-E2 aircraft. Widerøe Ground Handling provides ground handling services at 41 Norwegian airports.

One of the Norwegian Group's most significant goals is sustainability, with a commitment to significantly reduce carbon emissions. A notable initiative in this regard is investment in sustainable aviation fuel production and utilization.

Read more: https://www.db.lv/zinas/atklata-aviokompanijas-norwegian-baze-riga-516132

Airline "Norwegian" opens a base in Riga and expands the number of destinations.

Get the Radisson Blu experience – comfort, style, unparalleled service, and close attention to detail in some of the world’s favorite destinations. Radisson Blu Daugava Hotel features 174 well-appointed rooms and suites featuring cozy design and thoughtful amenities. As one of the largest accommodations in the city, hotel feature Standard Rooms, Business Class Rooms, and Suites, in addition to 8 room type categories. Hotels signature super breakfast buffet is served each morning at Panorama Restaurant. This elegant on-site restaurant specializes in international cuisine and offers convenient room service. Both the restaurant and hotel lobby bar overlook the Daugava River creating a memorable atmosphere for sharing delicious food and drinks.Additionally, the hotel provides 10 professional meeting spaces suitable for up to 350 guests.

Welcome to Radisson Daugava on joining NCCL as a Silver category business!

Neiburgs is a family-owned hotel praised for its elegant fusion of the historical and the modern. Originally built in 1903 near the City Council building in the heart of the Old Town, Neiburgs underwent renovation and was reopened as a hotel and restaurant in 2010, blending its historic charm with modern amenities. Our guests are welcome to book any of our 55 rooms, which offer breathtaking views of the stately Dom or the meandering medieval streets of the Old Town. Rooms are filled with natural light and are designed to offer guests the luxuries of full service, complete with a kitchenette and a fully functional workspace. Designer furniture, lamps, parquet floors, natural silk curtains and historical details adorn our rooms, satisfying your aesthetic sensibilities. For our guests’ convenience and enjoyment, there is a restaurant, business center, conference rooms, as well as a fitness room and spa.

Neiburgs stands out as the sole hotel in Riga featured in the Michelin Hotel Guide, with its restaurant also recognized in the Michelin Restaurant Guide and highly recommended by its guests on TripAdvisor. 

Welcome to SIA Jauniela 25/29!

Investing 255,000 euros in a renewable energy production project, it is planned to generate 287 MWh of "green" electricity per year, covering 25% of the company's total consumption. The green energy produced in a year will help reduce CO2 emissions by 136 tons, which is equivalent to planting 190 trees.

SIA "Orkla Latvia" had previously announced that it purchases "green" electricity from the general grid for all its factories, with "Laima" factory consuming 50% of the total. Now, after the installation of solar panels, the factory will use a total of about 75% renewable electricity, resulting in an average annual savings of 400 tons of CO2. This is the next step in the implementation of "Orkla Latvia's" sustainability strategy, aimed at environmental protection. The strategy aims to introduce renewable energy into production up to 60% of total consumption by 2024, reduce greenhouse gas emissions within its operations by 65%, and reduce value chain emissions outside its operations by 30%. "Times are changing, and with them, opportunities and solutions in food production change.

Since relocating production to the new, energy-efficient premises in Ādaži, equipped with the latest energy efficiency solutions, "Laima" has managed to reduce CO2 emissions by 50%. However, work does not stop at this achievement, and solutions were sought to reduce electricity consumption and resulting emissions through the purchase of "green" electricity and the installation of solar panels in August of this year. Simultaneously, projects are being implemented to reduce gas and water consumption as well.

Orkla Latvia invests 255,000 EUR in the installation of solar panels at the production plant!

Welcome to R.B.Management on joining NCCL as a Bronze category business!

RBM is a property investor, developer, manager, with 25 years’ experience in Latvia. RBM Group and its subsidiaries have purchased and developed retail, residential, office, hotel and logistics properties throughout Latvia. For more than 10 years, its team managed over 200 retail tenants in its own portfolio of 10 Rimi supermarkets. RBM developed and sold the property that became the Tallink Hotel Riga. For nearly 20 years, RBM Group has owned and managed 10,000 m2 of office properties in the center of Riga.

Welcome to R.B.Management!

Last week the Norwegian Chamber of Commerce in Latvia (NCCL) members gathered at the Norwegian Ambassador’s residence in Riga for the official NCCL #SeasonLaunch.

▶️ The reception was hosted and opened by the Norwegian Ambassador, her Excellency, Ine Måreng.

▶️ At the Season Launch, NCCL Chairman and Partner at Advokātu birojs "Spīgulis & Kukainis" Matiss Kukainis thanked the Ambassador for the warm welcome and the Embassy for providing a delicious dinner and refreshments for all attendees. He also thanked all NCCL members for their continued active involvement in NCCL work and activities.

▶️ We had the pleasure of hearing from the Executive Vice President and CEO of Orkla Confectionery & Snacks about the opening of the largest cookie factory in the Baltic/Scandinavia region that took place on the 14th of September.

▶️ During the event, we welcomed our new members - Olainfarm, META Advisory, Orkla Biscuit Production, Hilton Garden Inn Riga Old Town, Mektron and Vitcake.

▶️ NCCL Chairman and Partner at Advokātu birojs "Spīgulis & Kukainis" Matiss Kukainis handed an appreciation plaque to our partner TRY DIG for their outstanding pro bono services in building a new and modern digital interface for the Norwegian Chamber of Commerce in Latvia and for their continuous support and active engagement in the Norwegian Latvian business community.

This year, NCCL Season Launch & Reception was special in many ways. Most importantly, because it was the last event for NCCL Executive Director Ilze Garoza who has been an invaluable part of the growth and success of the NCCL over the last 5 years. The Norwegian Ambassador, Her Excellency, Ine Måreng thanked Ilze for her dedication and hard work. On behalf of the NCCL Board, Chairman and Partner at Advokātu birojs "Spīgulis & Kukainis" Matiss Kukainis handed Ilze Garoza a certificate of appreciation for her service to NCCL over the last 5 years.

At the Season Launch the new NCCL Executive Director Krista Vahtele was introduced as well and the members had the chance to meet her for the first time.

NCCL Season Launch & Reception

Congratulations to our member Orkla Biscuit Production on opening the largest cookie factory in the Baltic/Scandinavia region!

Orkla Biscuit Production, part of Orkla Confectionery and Snacks, is a producer of Biscuits and Wafers. The company supply products for the Nordic and Baltic markets within the brands of Ballerina, Singoalla, Saetre, Selga, Kalev, Kantolan, Göteborgs utvalda, and more.

By investing more than 100 million euros, Orkla Biscuit Production, a sister company of the food company Orkla Latvija, has built the largest biscuit and waffle factory in Baltics, in Ādaži, just outside Rīga.

Its modern lines and production capacity will allow the supply of sweet treats not only to Latvia and Estonia, but also to Finland, Sweden and Norway, providing around 400 jobs. The official opening of the factory took place on Thursday, September 14.

Learn more about Orkla Biscuit Factory 

Congratulations to our member Orkla Buiscuit Production!

Very warm welcome to META Advisory on joining the Norwegian Chamber of Commerce in Latvia as a Gold Member!

META Advisory is a top-tier business consultancy and public affairs agency in Latvia and Baltics, committed to driving sustainable development and promoting responsible business practices. As a member of the global network of government relations consultancies FIPRA and the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), we offer a comprehensive range of services, including policy, economy, and technical research, public affairs, public relations, corporate events, and investments.

META Advisory joins NCCL as a Gold Member! 

 on joining the Norwegian Chamber of Commerce in Latvia!

Richard Nilsen, at the helm of Mektron, offers bespoke business development services for technology companies in Latvia eager to establish a foothold in the Norwegian market. Mektron's expertise shines particularly in the aquaculture, maritime and energy sectors, providing strategic guidance and actionable solutions for businesses to navigate and succeed in these industries. Mektron offers comprehensive solutions spanning the entire value chain – from research and development, to fabrication, sales, and service. Our in-depth expertise ensures our clients thrive in their respective industries.

Welcome aboard the Norwegian Chamber of Commerce in Latvia!

Very warm welcome to Mektron AS!

 (SPIGULIS & KUKAINIS), a full-service business law firm located in Riga, Latvia, celebrated its 15-year anniversary.

SPIGULIS & KUKAINIS law office, was the first Norwegian Chamber of Commerce in Latvia (NCCL) Platinum member, and one of its co-founders, Attorney at Law 

, is the current Chairman of the Board of the NCCL.

) was established in June 2008 by Attorneys at Law Arturs Spīgulis and Matīss Davis Kukainis, who met during their studies in 2003/2004 at the Riga Graduate School of Law, in Riga, Latvia, where both were studying to receive their Masters in Law (LL.M.) in European Union and International Law.

As founding partner Matiss Kukainis explained, “What began as a two-person law office in 2008, has evolved into a leading law office in Latvia, with a team of 17 that includes lawyers licensed both in Latvia and the United States. We specialize in competition law, litigation / dispute resolution, mergers and acquisitions, all aspects of real estate, inheritance and succession planning, and all other areas of business law. In short, your one stop for all your business law needs in Latvia!”

For more than 10 years SPIGULIS & KUKAINIS has also been the sole member of the international network 

 , a leading global alliance of independent firms, which is consistently ranked amongst the TOP TEN professional associations worldwide, which allows SPIGULIS & KUKAINIS to provide integrated, quality legal services in more than 125 countries.

SPIGULIS & KUKAINIS is also a long-time member of both the Norwegian Chamber of Commerce in Latvia, American Chamber of Commerce in Latvia, and law firm partner Matiss Kukainis has served as the President and Chairman of the Board of both organizations.

Matiss further explained that “Over the past 15 years, SPIGULIS & KUKAINIS has not only worked diligently to defend the interests of their clients, but always has strived to make changes to the way business and the law work in Latvia, to benefit the development of the legal system of the country, with the goal of making Latvia a better place to live.”

Matiss is thankful to the NCCL and its members for its support over the years, and further added that “SPIGULIS & KUKAINIS could not achieve all of our success over the years without the trust of our clients, colleagues, cooperation partners and friends, including the NCCL, thus we are honoured that you have trusted us to consult you over the years with all your legal needs!”

The NCCL wishes SPIGULIS & KUKAINIS 15 more years of continued success!

If you have any questions, about any legal issues, feel free to contact Matiss Kukainis at:

SPIGULIS & KUKAINIS Law Office Celebrates 15 Years in Business

Join us in welcoming Vitcake into the NCCL member community!

Introducing VitCake – "A dynamic tech company at the forefront of innovation. Discover a world where creativity meets technology, as we craft delightful digital experiences that inspire and engage. Our main product, WAYL software, stands as a testament to our commitment to seamless solutions, empowering businesses to thrive in the digital landscape and provides ship owners and ship managers with perfect software solution to manage ships, crew, plan budget and much else. "

Explore their website and unlock a universe of possibilities with VitCake.: https://vitcake.com/


Vitcake joins NCCL as a Silver Category Member

After 5 exciting years at the Norwegian Chamber of Commerce in Latvia (NCCL), its current Executive Director has decided to take on a career opportunity at a different enterprise. With that, NCCL is looking for an enthusiastic, proactive, self-motivated individual with a high work ethic and relevant education and job experience to fill the vacancy and join the "Team Norway" in Latvia! 

The main tasks and responsibilities, as well as main requirements for the candidates are listed in the following 

If interested in the position, please send your application (motivation letter, CV and a list of references) by e-mail: office@nccl.lv! Please mark in the subject line: 

Application for Executive Director’s position

If you have any questions, do not hesitate to write: office@nccl.lv or call us at: +371 29906600

NCCL is looking for a new Executive Director

statement by the Norwegian Ambassador H.E.Ine Måreng

 on the currents state of affairs in relations between the Embassy and the Norwegian business community in Latvia, staff changes at the Embassy and upcoming events: 

"I hope you all have had a great Summer! Of the many visits and events during my first year here in Latvia, the meetings with and visits to many of you, the members of NCCL, have been a priority. Thank you for your time and warm welcome. I am impressed and most grateful for the cooperation with and support of NCCL. The Embassy team is looking forward to a new season of close cooperation with your eminent CEO Ilze, the board and all the members.

There has been some changes to the team over the Summer period. We reluctantly said goodbye to Jannicke Bain and Agnese Cimdina. Also our two trainees this Spring, Magnus Johannessen and Sara Øverli have left to continue their studies. Please welcome our new colleague and deputy Hilde Berit Eide as well as our two interns for the fall - William Tiller and Jete Gabriela Rastina.

It is going to be an eventful last half year of 2023 not only with a new team, but also with several business and cultural events. Worth mentioning here, is the delegation of Norwegian wind energy companies touring the Baltics with meetings in Riga 6 September. Also, there is the exhibition of Håkon Gullvågs portraits of Maris Jansons and the concert 8 December to mark that the latter would have been 80 years in 2023.

For those of you who are registered for voting in the Norwegian local election 2023 and would like to cast your vote here I Riga, the Embassy is the place up to 1 September.

Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions – as we also will do!"

Statement from the Norwegian Ambassador

, which takes a look into what challenges and opportunities lie ahead this year in the real estate and investments! 

https://cbre.lv/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Baltic-Market-Outlook-H2-2023.pdf

CBRE Baltics Mid-Year Market Outlook for 2023

Nine organizations, including both foreign and domestic investors, business and industry associations, various professionals within Latvia and its diaspora call on the Latvian government to amend the laws and regulations to prevent economic double taxation on dividends for individual investors.

"At a time when Latvia lags further behind its neighbours in economic growth and development, it is imperative to remove all barriers reducing its international competitiveness," says a statement, co-signed by  NCCL Chairman Matīss Kukainis, which has been addressed to Latvia's Prime Minister, line ministers and respective Parliamentary Committees.

Joint Chamber Statement Regarding Double Taxation

AS Olainfarm, the leading pharmaceutical company in the Baltics, has become a Platinum member of the Norwegian Chamber of Commerce in Latvia (NCCL), which unites nearly 100 members and is one of the largest and most active foreign chambers of commerce in Latvia.

Olainfarm plans to nearly double its export turnover in the next five years, expanding both its product portfolio and presence in European countries. The Norwegian Chamber of Commerce in Latvia provides an excellent platform for sharing experiences, building and strengthening business relationships both in Latvia and in export markets

Jānis Buks, Chairman of the Board of AS "Olainfarm."

Olainfarm is one of the leading pharmaceutical companies in the Baltics, and we are pleased that it has joined our member network, thus enabling us to provide even greater competence, knowledge, and exchange of experiences among the members, promoting closer cooperation between Latvian and Norwegian companies

Matīss Kukainis, NCCL Chairman of the Board.

Olainfarm, which is part of the "AB City" group, is one of the largest companies in the Baltic countries with 50 years of experience in the production of medicines and chemical pharmaceutical products. The company manufactures high-quality, safe, and effective products for Latvia and the rest of the world. Overall, Olainfarm products are exported to more than 60 countries. The goal of Olainfarm is to become one of the top 10 pharmaceutical companies in Europe in its product groups, ensuring that patients have the necessary medicines and products in all stages of healthcare. To achieve this, with the support of shareholders the company plans to invest in several areas, including new production lines, research and development of new products, laboratory modernization, increasing export volume, improving energy efficiency, and implementing renewable energy technologies. The total investment in these projects exceeds 100 million euros.

Currently, Olainfarm product portfolio consists of more than 100 different products and intermediates, with a goal to introduce at least 10 new products in production in the coming years and increase production capacity by at least 20%, nearly doubling export volume as well. Additionally, at least 65 highly qualified jobs will be created in Olaine, with nearly half of them in research and development.

OlainFarm joins NCCL as a Platinum Member

– 4-star superior hotel is located in the Old Town Riga near the Town Hall Square and the magnificent House of Black Heads, which is known as the business card of Old Riga. St. Peter’s Church and Daugava River are just a few minutes’ walk away.

Hotel offers a conference hall with daylight and a view of a quiet street of Old Riga. We gladly host seminars, banquets, business breakfasts and other types of events in a room with an area of 95m2. We offer participants coffee breaks, lunches and dinners according to a pre-arranged menu.

The conference room is equipped with stationary technical equipment (projector, screen, sound system) and participants are provided with drinking water during the entire event.

Hotel features Beef Room restaurant - a casual, all-day restaurant, driven by exclusive quality beef, seasonal and local ingredients, handcrafted beers, and selected beverages that capture and embrace the spirit of a good steakhouse.

Summer terrace is opened during the season.

Hilton Garden Inn joins NCCL member community

NCCL members visited Latvia’s Education and Science

 to discuss ways of expanding Norwegian language teaching in Latvia, raise the quality of education and address the current and future labour market needs. During the visit, NCCL also handed to the Latvia's Minister of Education and Science a letter, co-signed by NCCL Executive Director and seven NCCL member companies, seeking Ministry’s support and input in expanding Norwegian language teaching in Latvia.

Taking into account the close bilateral ties between Latvia and Norway in the field of defense as part of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), as well as the close economic cooperation within the European Economic Area and Norway's significant contribution to the Latvian economy through the Norwegian financial instrument, NCCL together with its members, which have co-signed the letter, emphasizes the value and importance of expanding Scandinavian language teaching in Latvia.

Norway is one of the top 10 foreign investors in Latvia, with investments exceeding 460 million EUR in early 2023, according to the Bank of Latvia. About 250 Norwegian capital companies in Latvia employ more than 6,000 people, including more than 500 Norwegian language speakers in the global business service sector. To learn more about companies that provide service functions in Norwegian language, visit: 

NCCL invites the Ministry of Education and Science to look for ways and support initiatives aimed at expanding the opportunities for learning Scandinavian languages ​​in the Latvian education system, thereby promoting Latvia's export potential and economic growth, as well as the economic integration of the Baltic and Nordic countries. To achieve better results and to address the labour market needs, NCCL members also emphasized the need to promote Scandinavian language learning at all levels, ranging from the primary and secondary school system to the higher education, and including the life-long learning programmes.

According to the Bank of Latvia, the accumulated foreign direct investments from Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Finland in Latvia in early 2023 amounted to 8.3 billion euros, which makes up 35.8 percent of the total FDI in Latvia. Nordic countries are one of Latvia's main and priority export markets, and learning Scandinavian languages ​​in Latvia will not only strengthen Latvia's competitiveness in these markets, but also increase Latvia's attractiveness among Nordic investors, states the letter issued by NCCL.

NCCL Invites to Expand Norwegian Language Teaching in Latvian Education System

With a diverse program for Norwegian investors, business associates, entrepreneurs, students and other interested parties, the first Norwegian Culture Week has concluded in Latvia with 12 widely attended events, which were organized with the aim of strengthening bilateral cooperation between Norway and Latvia in business, culture and education.

The Norwegian Culture Week ended on May 17 with the World Ice-Hockey Championship match between Norway and Latvia and the Celebration of the Norwegian Constitution Day. The Norwegian Culture Week was organized by the Norwegian Chamber of Commerce in Latvia (NCCL) in cooperation with the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Latvia, Latvia’s Investment and Development Agency (LIAA) and several NCCL member companies.

"In the field of investment attraction, Norway is among the 10 largest foreign investors in Latvia. In 2022, Norway together with Germany ranked first in terms of the number of investment projects attracted to Latvia (6). On the other hand, Norway is one of the fastest growing Latvian export markets with a positive trade balance. In 2022, the total amount of exports to Norway was estimated at around 631.9 million euros, demonstrating 33% increase compared to the previous year. We highly appreciate our Norwegian partners and the fact that Latvia has been chosen as a destination by a number of internationally-known Norwegian companies - Linstow, Orkla, Visma, DNB, Norwegian Air, Atea Global Services, Livonia Print, Møller Mobility Group and many others. This is a clear signal that Latvia has an attractive investment environment that is able to provide all the necessary conditions for companies looking for expansion opportunities," emphasizes LIAA Director Kaspars Rožkalns.

In total, around 250 Norwegian companies operate in Latvia with Norwegian capital, providing more than 6,000 jobs. According to Lursoft, the total turnover of these companies exceeded 1.3 billion euros in 2021.

"May is a very special month both for Latvia and Norway. While Latvia celebrates her Independence Restoration Day on May 4th, Norwegians mark their Constitution on May 17th. This year, the May 17th Celebration was a little extra special, as it coincided with Norway competing with Latvia at the 2023 IIHF World Ice-Hockey Championship in Riga. Building up to this date, NCCL together with its closest partners offered a rich and diverse culture and business programme in Latvia, which was attended by close to 1000 participants, including leading Norwegian investors, company managers and employees, closest partners, and friends of Norway. The high participation proves not only the close bilateral cultural and business ties between the two countries, but also demonstrates a great interest in even closer cooperation in the future," says Ilze Garoza, Executive Director of NCCL, thanking all co-organizers, supporters, and attendees of the many events throughout the week.

The first Norwegian Culture and Business Week in Latvia took place from May 10th to 17th. During the week, 12 events took place, including NCCL Brain Games, organized in close cooperation with DNB Service Centre and with the support of Norwegian Embassy and Orkla Latvija, screenings of Norwegian movies at K Suns, art show at the Norwegian Ambassadors residence, webinar on Norwegian Business Culture, and a free Norwegian language class, provided by the “House of Languages”. During the Norwegian Culture Week several business meetings were held, including with the Director of Latvia’s Investment and Development Agency and the Mayor of Riga Mārtiņš Staķis, who is scheduled to visit Oslo on May 21 and 22. The Culture Week ended on a high note with the watching of the Norway and Latvia Ice-Hockey game and May 17th Celebration at Tallinas kvartāls.

The first Norwegian Culture Week Celebrates Norwegian Investments in Latvia

Celebrating the close cultural and business ties between Norway and Latvia and in efforts to strengthen them even further, a 

 will take in place in Riga from May 10 until May 17, leading up to Norwegian Constitution Day celebration together with Norwegians and friends of Norway in Latvia!

This is your last chance to sign up and join us tomorrow, 

 tournament, which will take place at Oratorio (Sporta iela 2, Riga). The Brain Games, which will engage participants in a friendly competition on all things Norwegian, are organized in close cooperation between 

Norwegian Embassy in Riga, Orkla Latvija, 

the Investment and Development Agency in Latvia. 

We will be joined by both the Norwegian Ambassador in Latvia H. E. 

 who will participate in the brain games with their own teams.


May 11 at 18:00 - Free Norwegian Language Class

Want to learn some basic words and expressions in Norwegian language to break ice in your conversation with Norwegian colleagues and partners? We are delighted to invite you to a free Norwegian language class, which will take place on Thursday, 

May 11, at 18:00 at the House of Languages

, located at Avotu iela 33 in Riga! This class is designed for those who have little to no prior knowledge of the language and are eager to start learning. Limited seats. Admission is free, but registration is required! 


May 12 at 10:00 - "Understanding Norwegian Business Culture"

Are you looking to expand your business to Norway or improve cooperation with Norwegian partners and colleagues? If so, tune in for the webinar "

Understanding the Norwegian Business Culture", 

Friday, May 12, from 10:00 to 11:00 (EEST

). Our panel of experts will share their insights and experiences, providing valuable information as well as tips & tricks on how to succeed in building partnerships with Norwegian partners and clients. Admission: Free, Registration is required! 

May 13 & 14 at 17:00 - Norwegian movie screening at K Suns

On May 13 and 14 two Norwegian movies will be shown at K Suns Movie theatre (Elizabetes iela 83/85 in Riga), including 

. Admission is free, but ticket reservation is required! Click here to get your tickets for 

May 16 at 15:00 - Norwegian Art showcase at the Ambassador's Residence

The Royal Embassy of Norway in Riga has extended an invitation to 

 at the Norwegian Ambassador's Residence on May 16, from 15:00 to 16:00. Limited seats. Admission is free, but registration is required! Sign up by e-mail: office@nccl.lv!

May 17 - Norway vs Latvia Ice hockey game and May 17th Celebration

On May 17, Norway celebrates its Constitution Day. This year, the May 17th celebration will be a little extra special, as on that date the national 

2023 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship.

 The game will take place at Arena Riga, located at Skanstes iela 21 in Riga with the start time at 16:20. This is your last chance to reserve your ticket and join our group of about 100 NCCL members and friends that will be attending the game in person. After the game we will proceed to 

The first Norwegian Culture Week kicked off in Riga

On May 3, the Norwegian Chamber of Commerce in Latvia Board held its first board meeting since NCCL Annual General meeting. During the meeting, NCCL Board held elections of the Chairman and Vice-Chairman. 

, Founding Partner at "Spīgulis & Kukainis" Law Firm on his re-election as the NCCL Chairman of the Board and 

, CEO of Linstow Baltic, as the NCCL Vice-Chairman of the Board!

 is a founding partner of the full-service business law firm SPIGULIS &amp; KUKAINIS, based in Riga, Latvia (www.ska.lv). Matiss is a licensed attorney both in Latvia and the State of Illinois, USA. Matiss specializes in all aspects of real estate law, consulting on the sale, acquisition, lease, inheritance and management of property. SPIGULIS &amp; KUKAINIS law firm employs numerous lawyers that cover the whole spectrum of business law / legal advisory services. In addition to serving on the board of NCCL, Matiss has previously been both the President and Vice President of the American Chamber of Commerce in Latvia, and on the board of the British Chamber of Commerce in Latvia. Matiss has also taught business and international law at various institutions in Latvia, at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, amassing more than 1,300 direct classroom teaching hours. Matiss also regularly advises various non-profit organizations on a pro-bono basis.

Matiss was born and educated in the United States, and holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering (B.S.M.E.), and a Juris Doctor Degree in Law (J.D.) from Michigan State University, as well as a Master of Law Degree (LL.M.) in International and European Union Law from the Riga Graduate School of Law in Riga, Latvia

 is CEO of Linstow Baltic, a Norwegian real estate developer and manager with more than 20 years experience in the Baltics. He has been with the company since 1998 when he joined as its COO, becoming CEO in 2004. He has held several positions at Executive Boards, including the Foreign Investor Council in Latvia and Power Nordic Consumer Electronic Chain (former Expert Nordic). Frode holds a BA in International Marketing from the University of Leeds in the UK and Master of Marketing Science from the Norwegian Business School (BI) in Oslo, Norway.

NCCL Chairman and Vice-Chairman Re-Approved by the Board for Another Term

", which has recently joined NCCL Member network! 

Orkla Biscuit Production, part of Orkla Confectionery & Snacks, is a producer of Biscuits and Wafers. The company supply products for the Nordic and Baltic markets within the brands of Ballerina, Singoalla, Saetre, Selga, Kalev, Kantolan, Göteborgs utvalda, and more.

Orkla Biscuit Production joins NCCL as a Silver Category Member

Over 50 NCCL members and invited guests participated in the Norwegian Chamber of Commerce in Latvia Annual General meeting, which took place last week at Hotel Bergs Suites in Riga. The event provided an opportunity for NCCL members to learn about the latest developments in Latvia's economy, Norwegian business presence in Latvia, NCCL activities and interact with other NCCL members.

At the AGM, we were joined by the Norwegian Ambassador H.E. Ine Måreng and heard a presentation by 

, Adviser to the Council of Latvijas Banka and ECFR Council Member, focusing on the topic "The Economy of Latvia in the Whirlwinds of Geopolitical Developments". The meeting was chaired by the NCCL Chairman of the Board 

Four NCCL Platinum members - Spigulis & Kukainis Law Firm, Linstow Baltic, Moller Baltic Import, and DNB Service Centre provided brief introductions of their business operations in Latvia. NCCL also introduced several newcomers to the Chamber, including Gold member AtoZ Group; Silver category members Codex Advokat Oslo AS, Sorainen, VA Government Rud Pedersen Group; Bronze members - Slokenbergs PLLC, JPR Bemanning, SCANFREIGHT LATVIA SIA, and Individual members Andre V. Demarest and Andis Šadurskis.

During the AGM, the results of the NCCL Board elections were announced. We are delighted to continue close cooperation with 

Matiss Kukainis, Frode Gronvold, Ilze Grase-Ķibilde, Snorre Karkkonen Svensson

, who were re-elected on the NCCL board for another 2 year term. Congratulations! To learn about NCCL and our activities last year, check out our 

NCCL Members Focus on Economy and Member Updates at AGM

If your company plans on launching upgrades in digital infrastructure, check out the recently launched 

support programs for business digitalisation

, which are made available as part of the European Recovery mechanism! 

The aid programmes provide aid to economic operators in the amount of 

 and have been created with an aim to promote digitalisation of processes, automation and robotisation in commercial activities by investing in technological solutions and innovations, as well as by changing the production processes. 

Investment and Development Agency of Latvia

 (LIAA). Check out the programme description prepared and shared by 

 and reach out to them if you have any questions:

 https://leinonen.eu/lva/news/support-programs-for-business-digitalisation/

Support Programs for Business Digitalisation

To address the topics highly relevant to the Norwegian business community in Riga and to learn more about outlook and concrete initatives to attract new talent and investments to Riga, NCCL members this week visited the 

Riga Investment and Tourism Agency (RITA)

While Fredis Bikovs outlined the priorities and planned activities by RITA, 

Antra Zālīte, Chairperson of Visma Enterprise and Board member at NCCL

, who also serves on the recently-established 

, shared her outlook on the major challenges, followed by a discussion among NCCL members operating in the IT, global service centre industry, real estate, education, and banking.

As pointed out by F. Bikovs in his presentation, access to qualified talent is cited as far more important criteria for new investors than many other aspects such as location, taxes etc. To address this topic, NCCL members spoke of the need for improved education, better branding for the city of Riga, the need for higher inclusion and proactive engagement of Latvian diaspora, foreign students and non-Latvian spouses, as well as support for relocation.

In 2023, the Riga Investment and Tourism Agency has introduced several innovations in facilitating attraction of talent and new investors to the capital of Latvia, including the launch of the international talent attraction platform "

, inviting companies to spend a paid "working vacation" in Riga.



 - offers information for job seekers from European Union countries outside the EU and those from the Latvian diaspora abroad. This is a platform that provides clear and concise information in one place on all matters related to moving and starting a job in Riga.



 which was launched at the end of 2022, - offers potential investors to spend a week in Riga and learn more about the business opportunities offered by the capital of Latvia. The agency will cover travel (plane), accommodation and co-working space expenses for 5 working days for you to explore Riga's investment environment in more detail and receive a tailor-made visit agenda that will include meetings with city leadership, business consultancies and key-opinion leaders relevant to your industry as well as company visits.

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