Latvian grain shipments are not being displaced by transit cargo at ports, and the necessary capacity for handling domestic grain is being ensured, the Latvian Stevedoring Companies Association stresses, noting that Latvian-origin cargo is given priority during the grain season.
The Association explains that the primary function of Latvia’s ports and transport infrastructure is to serve the needs of the Latvian economy, including the import and export activities of domestic companies. Latvian grain represents one of the most significant seasonal cargo volumes, and ports, terminals and the railway therefore take these shipments into account in advance when planning their operations.
Members of the Latvian Stevedoring Companies Association confirm that domestic grain shipments are handled in accordance with the volumes that have been requested and agreed upon, and are not being displaced by transit cargo. Latvian grain is accepted and handled, while individual situations in which additional capacity is required at a particular terminal at a given time are resolved in cooperation with customers.
The Association stresses that the overall capacity of Latvian ports makes it possible to handle Latvian grain while simultaneously using available spare capacity for other types of cargo.
At the same time, terminal infrastructure, warehouses and workforce must be maintained throughout the year, even though the most intensive period for handling Latvian grain is seasonal. Therefore, spare port capacity is also used to handle legal transit cargo and grain originating from other countries.
According to the Association, a regular flow of cargo is essential for maintaining port infrastructure and the workforce throughout the year, which in turn enables ports to provide high-quality services for cargo handled on behalf of Latvian companies.
Regarding the control of transit cargo, the Latvian Stevedoring Companies Association notes that shipments are inspected in accordance with the responsibilities of the relevant authorities. Terminals cooperate with the Customs Board of the State Revenue Service, the Food and Veterinary Service and other competent authorities in verifying cargo documentation, origin and compliance with other requirements established by law.
The industry is interested in ensuring that controls are as effective as possible and that sanctioned cargo, cargo of non-compliant origin or otherwise illegal shipments do not enter Latvia’s transport system. If the competent authorities and experts conclude that additional control mechanisms are necessary, stevedoring companies are prepared to cooperate in their implementation.
The Association stresses that the industry’s task is to maintain a safe, economically viable transport system that remains accessible to Latvian businesses, while preserving priority for Latvian cargo and making efficient use of available infrastructure capacity.