AGP Executive Report

Riga’s Camera Legacy: The Minox began as a 1930s engineering project, not a spy gadget. Inventor Walter Zapp worked with Riga machinist Richard Jürgens to build the first prototypes, which later attracted Latvian electronics company VEF. 5G at Klaipėda Port: Latvian provider LMT helped complete private-network trials, with demonstrations including an autonomous inspection drone and LVR Flote’s uncrewed survey vessel. Quantum Research: Latvia has launched cooperation with Canada’s Sherbrooke quantum technology ecosystem, opening a new channel for research links. Drone Detection: An app to detect drones is being developed in Latvia, adding to local efforts to build security technology.

Industrial 5G: Latvia’s LMT and partners completed private 5G trials at Lithuania’s Klaipėda Port, demonstrating autonomous drones and an uncrewed survey vessel for faster inspections and data processing. Defence Innovation: Latvia is developing an app to detect drones, while the Investment and Development Agency of Latvia will lead efforts to grow defence-company exports and attract investment. Quantum Research: Latvia has launched cooperation with Canada’s Sherbrooke quantum technology ecosystem. Resilient Payments: Mastercard’s offline payment system, designed to keep essential purchases possible during power or network outages, is already deployed in Latvia.

Industrial 5G: Latvia’s LMT and Santa Monica Networks completed trials of a private 5G network at Lithuania’s Klaipėda Port, demonstrating how reliable connectivity could support autonomous drones, survey vessels and faster port operations. Payments Resilience: Mastercard says its offline payment system is already deployed in Latvia, allowing eligible transactions to continue during network outages; new European card and terminal requirements begin in 2027. Quantum Research: Latvia has launched cooperation with Canada’s Sherbrooke quantum technology ecosystem, opening a new channel for research and innovation ties. Drone Detection: An app to detect drones is being developed in Latvia, adding a local technology effort as demand grows for tools to monitor airspace. Circular Economy: Latvia, Estonia and Finland are testing new recycling models through the €2.64 million SustainaCycle project.

Private 5G: Latvian telecom provider LMT and Santa Monica Networks completed trials at Lithuania’s Klaipėda Port, demonstrating how 5G could support autonomous drones, survey vessels and faster port operations. Resilient Payments: Mastercard plans to require offline payment capability on new European cards from February 2027 and on new or replacement terminals from May; its system is already in use in Latvia and three other countries. Defence Technology: An app for detecting drones is under development in Latvia, as the country steps up support for defence innovation and exports. Quantum Research: Latvia has launched cooperation with Canada’s Sherbrooke quantum technology ecosystem, opening a new link for research and technology collaboration.

Industrial 5G: Latvian operator LMT and partner Santa Monica Networks completed the design phase for a potential private 5G network at Lithuania’s Klaipėda Port, demonstrating applications for more efficient and automated operations. Clean Aviation: Latvian SAF company NorSAF and Nova Pangaea plan to develop a plant in Latvia that converts local food waste into ethanol for sustainable aviation fuel. AI Tools: Latvia-founded Printful launched AI Mockups, bringing lifestyle product imagery into its publishing workflow. Drone Technology: An app for detecting drones is being developed in Latvia, as the region faces growing security needs. Quantum Research: Latvia has also launched cooperation with Canada’s Sherbrooke quantum technology ecosystem.

Defence Technology: Latvia has received its first locally assembled Hunter infantry fighting vehicle. The programme plans 84 deliveries by 2029, with at least 30% local industry participation. Drone Detection: An app to detect drones is being developed in Latvia, as LIAA also leads a new effort to help domestic defence firms find export markets and investment. Quantum Research: Latvia has launched cooperation with Canada’s Sherbrooke quantum technology ecosystem, opening a path for research and industry links. Clean Technology: NorSAF and Nova Pangaea plan a Latvian plant that will turn food waste into ethanol for sustainable aviation fuel. Digital Infrastructure: LMT and partners have demonstrated private 5G applications for Klaipėda Port, while Mastercard’s planned offline payment standards build on systems already used in Latvia.

Defence Technology: Latvia has received its first locally assembled Hunter infantry fighting vehicle. The contract covers 84 vehicles by 2029, with at least 30% local industry participation. Tech Exports: LIAA is leading a new effort to help Latvian defence technology firms find international buyers and attract investment. 5G Networks: LMT and Santa Monica Networks have demonstrated private 5G applications at Lithuania’s Klaipėda Port as they explore a port-wide network. Clean Energy: NorSAF and Nova Pangaea plan to make ethanol in Latvia from food waste, supplying a sustainable aviation fuel facility. Airspace Monitoring: A developer in Cēsis is building AirAlert, an app that combines public reports and sensor data to track possible drone threats; development is about halfway complete. Quantum Research: Latvia has launched cooperation with Canada’s Sherbrooke quantum technology ecosystem.

Defence Technology: Latvia has received its first Hunter infantry fighting vehicle, with 84 planned by 2029 and local industry involved in the programme. A separate Latvian-built AirAlert app is being developed to combine public reports and sensor data on possible drone activity, though its creator says it still needs funding and equipment. Quantum Research: Latvia has launched cooperation with Canada’s Sherbrooke quantum technology ecosystem, opening a new link for research and technology development. Fintech: Latvijas Banka has issued new crypto-asset and payment licences, adding momentum to a fast-growing Latvian sector. Circular Economy: Latvia, Estonia and Finland are testing new ways to collect and sort textile, plastic and electronic waste, including five planned mobile collection points in Vidzeme.

Defence Technology: Latvia has received its first Hunter infantry fighting vehicle, with 84 expected by 2029 and local industry involved in the programme. Airspace Tech: A Cēsis resident is developing AirAlert, an app that combines public reports and sensor data to track possible drone threats; it is about halfway complete and needs funding and agency support. AI & Film: Latvian filmmaker Nikolay Shestak won a €401,000 prize at Kazakhstan’s first AI film festival for The First Honest Day. Research Links: Latvia has launched cooperation with Canada’s Sherbrooke quantum technology ecosystem. Circular Economy: A €2.64 million regional project will test five mobile waste collection points in Vidzeme, alongside recycling pilots in Estonia and Finland. Digital Security: Riga’s Techritory forum on October 21–22 will focus on Europe’s digital sovereignty, security, AI and next-generation networks.

Defence Innovation in the EU: The European Parliament backed the €115m AGILE programme to speed up rapid, low-cost defence tech grants for SMEs, start-ups and scale-ups, with fast-track funding plus testing and certification support. Latvia’s Security & Migration Tech: Latvia extended Operation “Vilkatis” on the eastern border until 31 December to curb illegal migration from Belarus, with plans to introduce new technologies and strengthen border capabilities. NATO’s “Theory of Victory”: NATO’s eastern-flank strategy draft reportedly focuses on stopping a Russian invasion using low-cost drones, minimally crewed systems and AI-enabled targeting, aiming to deter aggression. Drone Cooperation (JEF): Ukraine proposed deeper drone and counter-drone collaboration with the UK-led Joint Expeditionary Force, offering mass-produced low-cost interceptor drones and real-time air-sensing integration. Public Health Watch: Latvia’s SPKC says the risk of plague spreading to Latvia is very low while it monitors a suspected pneumonic plague case in Russia. Circular Economy Pilots: Latvia, Estonia and Finland are testing new recycling models under the €2.64m SustainaCycle project, including mobile waste collection hubs and guided textile sorting. Latvia-Canada Quantum Link: LIAA signed a three-year deal with Sherbrooke’s quantum ecosystem to help commercialise quantum and deep-tech research for exports and joint projects. Fintech in Riga: UN:BLOCK Fintech will bring 600+ leaders to Riga to discuss MiCA, cross-border payments, AI in finance and how to unlock Latvia’s €9bn dormant savings and pension capital.

Science & Health: Latvia’s SPKC says a suspected pneumonic plague case in Russia poses a very low risk of spread to Latvia, stressing that timely diagnosis, isolation and antibiotics can contain outbreaks. Environment & Circular Economy: Latvia, Estonia and Finland are testing new recycling models under the €2.64m SustainaCycle project, including mobile waste collection points in Latvia’s Vidzeme region and guided textile sorting in Finland. Public Finance: Latvia’s Finance Ministry proposes austerity-style steps, including limiting new government contracts and postponing non-critical spending until end-2026. AI & Culture: Latvian filmmaker Nikolay Shestak won the $450k Grand Prix at Kazakhstan’s Astana AI Film Festival for an AI-created film, boosting attention on AI in creative production. Security Tech & Policy: Ukraine is offering JEF partners combat-tested drone, counter-drone and battlefield data-integration tech for Baltic and North Atlantic defense. Latvia in Global Tech: LIAA signed a three-year cooperation with Sherbrooke’s quantum technology ecosystem in Canada, aiming to commercialize deep tech and support exports and joint projects. Techritory 2026: Riga will host the Oct 21–22 forum on Europe’s digital security, sovereignty and competitiveness, with 600+ speakers.

Latvia Politics & Security: Latvia’s ruling path looks set after Andris Kulbergs’ United List won 35.3% and 42 of 100 seats, with promises to keep backing Ukraine and avoid coalitions with pro-Russian parties—an election shaped by fears of drone incursions. Fintech in Riga: UN:BLOCK Fintech brings 600+ leaders to Riga on Oct. 15 to tackle MiCA, cross-border payments, AI in finance, stablecoins, DORA/PSD3, and licensing—plus a “dormant” €9bn savings-and-pensions discussion. Quantum Partnership: Latvia’s LIAA and Canada’s Sherbrooke quantum ecosystem signed a three-year deal to speed quantum, AI, and deep-tech commercialization and exports. Cyber & Finance: South Korea found 19 malicious IPs tied to a multi-country cyberattack on its financial system, including a Latvia-linked connection, and ordered sector-wide reviews. NATO “Theory of Victory”: NATO’s eastern-flank strategy draft focuses on integrating drones and AI to deter and, if needed, halt an invasion—scheduled for presentation in Poland Oct. 12. Defense Tech Cooperation: Ukraine proposed deeper JEF cooperation using Ukrainian drone, counter-drone, and battlefield sensing tech across the Baltic and North Atlantic. Energy Storage (Nordics): Finland’s “sand battery” heat-storage approach is expanding as a renewable backup option. Consumer Tech: Apple One Family prices rose in Latvia and several other countries.

Latvia Election & Security: Andris Kulbergs’ centrist United List won 35.3% and 42 of 100 seats, setting up a likely pro-Ukraine coalition as Latvia keeps a hard line toward Russia and promises more anti-drone capability. Fintech in Riga: UN:BLOCK Fintech will bring 600+ professionals to Riga on Oct 15 to discuss MiCA licensing, cross-border payments, AI in finance, and how to activate Latvia’s “dormant” €9bn in savings and pensions. Quantum Partnership: Latvia’s LIAA signed a three-year cooperation with Sherbrooke’s quantum ecosystem in Canada, aiming to commercialize quantum and AI deep-tech and support exports and joint projects. Defense Tech & NATO Planning: Ukraine proposed deeper drone and counter-drone cooperation with the UK-led JEF, while NATO’s “Theory of Victory” strategy reportedly focuses on integrating drones and AI for a rapid response to a Russian attack. Energy Storage Tech: Finland’s “sand battery” approach—heat storage in a silo—keeps spreading as a renewable backup option, with a second project under construction. Health & Science: A University of Latvia-linked study claims countries with more cats per person report higher happiness, while separate reporting highlights how war is hitting Ukraine’s science infrastructure and researchers.

Energy Storage in the Nordics: Finnish startup Polar Night Energy is scaling “sand battery” heat storage, with a second 2,400-ton silo under construction near two large lakes in southern Finland to store renewable heat for district heating. Latvia’s Election & Security: Latvia’s pro-Ukraine PM Andris Kulbergs looks set to stay in power after United List’s 35.3% win, aiming to form a coalition while keeping a hard line toward Russia amid drone-related fears. Fintech in Riga: UN:BLOCK Fintech will bring 600+ leaders to Fantadroms on 15 October, with workshops and direct regulatory access on MiCA, DORA, PSD3, stablecoins, digital identity, and licensing with Latvijas Banka. Renewables Funding (EU): The European Commission approved three cross-border renewable projects under CB RES status, including wind and district-heating upgrades spanning Ukraine–Romania, Poland–Germany, and geothermal heat-pump plans in Austria–Germany. Aviation Fuel Supply Chain: NorSAF and Nova Pangaea Technologies plan a wood-waste ethanol plant in Latvia to feed sustainable aviation fuel growth. Baltic Air Defence Drill: NATO tested an integrated air defence framework over Lithuania and Latvia with a U.S. B-1B Lancer and allied fighters, tankers, and ground assets.

AI & Media: AAIFF 2026 wrapped up with 25 AI-generated films in the final competition, with awards for character, story, visuals, direction and concept going to filmmakers from Kazakhstan, Italy and others. Latvia Politics: After the parliamentary election, PM Andris Kulbergs’ United List hit 35.3% (97% counted), positioning him to form another pro-Ukraine coalition and keep a hard line on Russia. Fintech in Riga: UN:BLOCK Fintech is set for 15 October at Fantadroms, aiming for 600+ attendees and hands-on sessions on MiCA, stablecoins, DORA, PSD3, digital identity, cybersecurity and licensing support with Latvijas Banka access. Latvian Fintech Licensing: Latvijas Banka approved new crypto and payment authorisations for Noah, Neverless and Atrya, boosting momentum for regulated digital finance. Energy & Health: A warning is making the rounds about energy drinks for kids, with calls to strictly limit caffeine for teens and avoid it for younger children. Defense Tech: NATO tested its new air defence framework over Lithuania and Latvia, including a U.S. B-1B bomber, as the region adapts to drones and missiles. Climate/Industry: NorSAF and Nova Pangaea Technologies plan a wood-waste ethanol plant to feed Latvia’s sustainable aviation fuel push.

Latvia Election Watch: Latvians vote in a Saeima election on Saturday, with security, Russia-linked drone incursions, and cost of living driving the campaign; Reuters reports pro-Ukrainian PM Andris Kulbergs’ United List leading in polls, but fragmentation could complicate coalition talks. Election Logistics: The Central Election Commission says the process is running smoothly, with turnout already at 7.44% from early voting. Investment Push: LIAA says it hit nearly 90% of its 2026 investment attraction target (€886.8m) in nine months, spanning energy, defence/dual-use, fintech and logistics. Fintech Regulation: Latvijas Banka granted crypto and payment licences to Noah LV, Neverless and Atrya, expanding MiCA-authorised services in Latvia. AI Growth: A new Baltic report finds AI company counts up 53% year-on-year to 282 across Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania, with Latvia strong in software and AI R&D. Energy & Climate: The EU added three cross-border renewable projects (WIND, DEPLOY, ZEGA-LINNK) to the CB RES list, unlocking Connecting Europe Facility support. Defence Tech: NATO tested a new air defence framework over Lithuania and Latvia with integrated air and missile defence under a shared command structure.