For almost four years, Russia has been waging a full-scale war against Ukraine. During this time, many entrepreneurs have severed business ties with Russian partners; however, in Latvia, it is still possible to find stores selling products from Russia and Belarus.
The program "Bez Tabu" visited a grocery store in Daugavpils, where a significant portion of the assortment consists of such goods.
At the end of last year, a store called "Mix Markt" opened in the city, operating under a franchise. This chain is represented in many European countries, especially where there is a large Russian-speaking community.
One of the store's visitors, Ruta, told journalists that her visit left her with an extremely unpleasant impression. According to her, the sales floor is dominated by products of Russian origin, raising questions about compliance with the sanctions regime. Additionally, Russian music is constantly playing in the store, which, in the woman's opinion, creates a sense of ignoring the Latvian cultural environment and the state language.
Journalists from the program also confirmed that the shelves are indeed dominated by products from Russia and Belarus. Products from Ukraine and other European countries are available but occupy a significantly smaller share.
Katrina Zarina, a representative of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, stated that from a moral and ethical standpoint, the existence of such a store in Daugavpils raises questions. In her opinion, all trade relations with Russia should be completely severed.
At the same time, the Ministry of Economics explained that while some retail chains voluntarily refused Russian goods, food products from Russia are not included in the European Union's sanction lists, meaning their sale in the EU remains legal.
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