This year, the information and communication technology (ICT) sector in Latvia demonstrated moderate growth, which was slower than in previous years, mainly due to geopolitical risks and caution in the Baltic region, said Signe Balinya, president of the Latvian Association of Information and Communication Technologies (LIKTA), to the LETA agency.
She noted that this year the industry should particularly emphasize the development of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies and the creation of related infrastructure, while Latvia's public administration maintains a conservative approach and implements AI solutions minimally. Although Latvia still outperforms many Western countries in terms of digitalization, 2026 should be a turning point for broader AI implementation to make public administration more efficient.
Balinya pointed out that at the European level, activities continue to strengthen data sovereignty and ICT, including through the activation of the IPCEI program, which brings together major industry companies and research centers to develop innovative solutions in areas such as cloud computing, microelectronics, energy, healthcare, and artificial intelligence.
Referring to data from the Central Statistical Bureau, Balinya noted that in 2024, there were 7,355 ICT industry enterprises in Latvia, employing nearly 45,000 specialists. In 2024, the industry paid 1.042 billion euros in taxes, accounting for 7.1% of the gross domestic product, and became one of the leading export sectors with an export volume of 1.51 billion euros. The total turnover of ICT enterprises amounted to 5.79 billion euros. In turn, the first and second quarters of 2025 indicate that the export of ICT services increased by 20% compared to the corresponding period in 2024.
LIKTA is a professional non-governmental organization established in 1998 that encompasses the entire ICT sector of Latvia — the field of information technology and software, telecommunications, and the services sector. The goal of LIKTA is to promote the development of the information society, improve ICT education, and grow the industry in Latvia. LIKTA unites industry organizations and enterprises, as well as individual members and other associations.
Leave a comment