Latvian Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Company Overview: Latvian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI)

Latvian Chamber of Commerce and Industry is Latvia’s biggest voluntary, non-governmental Business Support Organization which represents the interests of more than 2700 enterprises (micro, SMEs as well large-sized companies) in governmental institutions on both state and regional levels, as well as offers a wide list of services, as a result ensuring that there are excellent companies in the excellent and successful business environment in Latvia. Overall LCCI works in the following areas: 1) Business environment, 2) Lobbying, 3) Competitiveness, 4) Export, and 5) Arbitration. LCCI has been the voice and representative of Latvian enterprises more for than 85 years. The number of paid staff is around 50. 

Support for Ukrainian Refugees: LCCI’s Charity Initiatives

LCCI supported Ukraine by delivering goods from Latvian companies. In collaboration with Agroplatforma, Ltd and Mozelllo, Ltd, LCCI created an online charity store, where Latvian entrepreneurs could sell goods at cost prices or lower. Donor funds were used to purchase these goods, which were then shipped to Ukraine. LCCI facilitated the process as an intermediary. Participating companies included “Gemoss” Ltd, “Felici” Ltd, “Rāmkalni” Ltd, and more. Four wagons of goods were sent to Ukraine. LCCI also encouraged Latvian businesses to mark Ukrainian-produced goods with the “Ukraine’s benefit” recognition mark.

Building a Refugee Integration Network in the Latvian Labor Market

LCCI has begun creating a network to integrate Ukrainian refugees into the Latvian labor market by reaching out to stakeholders and Latvian organizations that could offer job opportunities. Communication with the Ukraine Chamber of Commerce and Industry continues to strengthen future cooperation. LCCI’s goal is to connect Ukrainian refugees with Latvian companies that are looking to offer them employment.

Challenges and Key Learnings in the Integration Process

LCCI found it particularly helpful to have a wide circle of contacts to support the organization of various initiatives for Ukrainian refugee support. However, activity in this area has decreased over time. The charity shop’s early challenges included organizing goods that met the necessary transportation and storage requirements, such as long shelf life and non-perishable items. Despite these challenges, Latvian businesses were highly responsive in providing logistical support, including freight forwarding and packing services.