On September 19, 2025, the Saeima hosted the conference “Where Are You Headed, Border Region? Vision for the Development of Latvia’s Eastern Border Regions by 2040,” organized by the Saeima Subcommittee for Latgale in cooperation with partners. The aim was to assess the Action Plan for the economic growth of Latvia’s eastern border regions and to discuss their development vision up to 2040.
The event featured speeches from the President of Latvia, several ministers, and other officials, highlighting the importance of the eastern border area for national security and development. The conference consisted of three thematic sections – security, socio-economic development, and human resources – where the challenges and solutions for the eastern border regions were analyzed. One of the presentations focused on the development vision of the Rēzekne Special Economic Zone (SEZ) until 2040, delivered by Maija Meirāne, Head of the Rēzekne SEZ Authority.
The Rēzekne SEZ covers 1,155 hectares and currently includes 23 companies with SEZ status. In 2024, Rēzekne SEZ companies reached a record investment level of €89.9 million. The SEZ is considered a crucial tool for encouraging entrepreneurs to remain and grow in the Latgale region. However, although investment activity is evident, it is not evenly distributed across the entire SEZ territory. The conference emphasized that in order for the SEZ to become an internationally competitive, sustainable, and innovative business hub in Eastern Latvia, several key measures are required:
- Extension of SEZ operational term. The current SEZ and tax incentive period is insufficient for attracting new investments. An extension would provide companies with a stable and predictable environment for long-term commitments.
- Support for production modernization. Special programs are needed for equipment acquisition, digitalization of production processes, and improvement of industrial areas to boost productivity and export capacity.
- Retention of human capital. Proposed solutions include scholarships, tuition fee compensation, mortgage relief, and employment opportunities to attract and retain young people in the region.
- Strengthening competitiveness for exporters. Compensation of transport costs and reduction of electricity expenses would help businesses compete more effectively with other regions and countries.
In conclusion, Rezekne SEZ CEO Maija Meirāne mentioned that the implementation of these proposals requires a new approach, bold decisions, and close cooperation between the state, municipalities, and the private sector, along with investments in infrastructure and human capital.
Daiga Utāne
Communications and Public Relations Specialist, Rēzekne SEZ Authority
Phone: (+371) 2863 3550 | E-mail: pr@rsez.lv | Website: www.rsez.lv