Connected Routes – The Future of Transport and Trade in Northern Europe

On June 10, FCCL members, together with representatives and members of several international chambers of commerce in Latvia, gathered for a high-level panel discussion “Connected Routes – The Future of Transport and Trade in Northern Europe”, hosted at the DHL Express Latvia office.

The event brought together members of the Finnish, Irish, British, Danish, and Swiss Chambers of Commerce in Latvia, creating an excellent platform for exchanging ideas, sharing expertise, and strengthening international business connections.

Before the discussion, guests had the opportunity to visit the DHL sorting center, gaining valuable insights into DHL’s daily operations, logistics processes, and the role of efficient connectivity in global trade.

The panel discussion gathered leading representatives from government, aviation, logistics, railway, and port infrastructure sectors to explore the future of connectivity, transportation, and trade across Northern Europe.

A key takeaway from the discussion was that Latvia’s transport system should be viewed as one interconnected ecosystem — where aviation, ports, railways, logistics, and public infrastructure complement each other rather than compete.

Connectivity remains one of the strongest drivers of economic growth, influencing investment attraction, export development, mobility, and Latvia’s overall competitiveness.

The discussion highlighted that Latvia’s geographical advantages alone are no longer enough to guarantee long-term success. To remain competitive in the Baltic and Northern European region, closer cooperation between different modes of transport and a coordinated long-term development strategy are essential.

Panelists also emphasized the importance of creating higher added value, attracting new investments, and moving beyond traditional transit services. Special attention was given to the aviation sector and its significant contribution to Latvia’s economic development.

A sincere thank you to our distinguished panelists for sharing their valuable insights:

✈️ Arturs Saveljevs – Member of the Management Board, RIX Riga Airport

📦 Artis Deksenieks – Managing Director, DHL Express Latvia

✈️ Mantas Vrubliauskas – VP Network Management, airBaltic

⚓ Edgars Sūna – Deputy Director for Port Development, Port of Riga

🏛️ Andulis Židkovs – State Secretary, Ministry of Transport of Latvia

🚆 Raitis Nespors – Chairman of the Board, Vivi

🔷 The event was jointly organized by:

Irish Latvian Chamber of Commerce (ILCC)

Finnish Chamber of Commerce in Latvia (FCCL)

BritCham Latvia / British Chamber of Commerce in Latvia

Danish Chamber of Commerce in Latvia

Swiss Chamber of Commerce in Latvia

Thank you to all participants, speakers, and partners for making this an insightful discussion and a valuable networking opportunity.

Together, we continue building stronger connections for the future of transport and trade in Northern Europe. 🌍

Read more about event in Latvian at DELFI: Latvijas aviācija un dzelzceļš nav konkurenti; uz transporta sistēmu jāskatās kā vienotu infrastruktūru, norāda eksperti

Photos: ILCC