The way out is to look for export opportunities

As long as it is a two way traffic, and preferably of roughly equal volumes, it makes a huge pile of sense...otherwise it is the survival of the fittest, am afraid. Also, remember, that we are pegged to Euro these days, so our exports are relatively more expensive for the UK consumer and thus less attractive, I suppose (why so? because I can hardly see what Latvia can interest the UK in, except, as duly noted above, beauty). Seems to me that our government does not share your way of thinking either...but hey, what was said above is true...optimism is refreshing... Cheers

Let me also support and congratulate with this initiative! We, Latvians, have beautiful and useful things to offer, such us textile, bio-farm products, bio-cosmetics and pharmacy products. In some of these fields Latvian companies have years of experience, fast and flexible working culture and curiosity to coopertate. The Focus on action and meeting point for networking will do the job

Well, what, apart from beauty, can a country like Latvia export? It has always been an agricultural country and some folks remember it selling butter and bacon to the West back in 1930s. Well, Latvia's biological farmers may have something to offer to the West again. Biological dairy products from Latvia could be a good alternative to the tasteless GM food that is overwhelming global food markets.

What a refreshing change from the stream of bad news and defeatism found in the media (both Latvian, British and otherwise) these days... As a Latvian based near London I am keenly interested in the development of trade between LV and the UK. Many thanks to you, the BCCL and other organisers of the trade promotion event for getting the ball rolling. There definitely is too much talk about protectionism, isolationism and de-globalisation. Increased mutually beneficial trade is the only way forward - unless, of course, the goal is a return to subsistance/barter economies.... Here's wishing you every success at the event! (wish I could be there). Kind regards, Eriks