On March 22, members of the Labor Force work group met to discuss the education sector's response to the labor market needs. Members also pointed out challenges they are facing when attracting and employing international talent, including the necessary amendments to the Labor law. The group also discussed topics for the meetings with the Minister of Education and university rectors aiming for closer collaboration. The meeting was hosted by Riga Graduate School of Law.

On March 21, AmCham together with Cognizant hosted a session devoted to the topic of sustainability and ESG, and the challenges, risks and opportunities for businesses when integrating ESG strategies into their operations. Invited experts agreed that the directive for sustainability reporting and other upcoming regulations will affect companies of all sizes and will require the collection of data, the assessment of existing business processes, value chains and the introduction of new processes. Although the implementation of ESG is a complex task, it can ultimately add real value and increase operating profits for businesses.

On March 14, members of the Healthcare work group gathered to discuss the latest developments with regard to ongoing healthcare issues: healthcare financing and efficiency, digital health, and the legal framework of secondary health data. Members also touched upon recent and upcoming meetings with government representatives.

Our 30th Annual General Meeting was a great success, with over 70 participants in attendance and honored guest Christopher Robinson, U.S. Ambassador to Latvia. Members met to review the past year’s activities and elect the Board of Directors. Roberts Melbardis, Pauls Miklasevics, Ieva Racenaja and Sarmis Spilbergs were re-elected to the Board for a 2-year term. Liene Dubava, Dita Erna Sile, Kerli Vares, John Tully and Liga Smildzina-Bertulsone will continue to serve on the Board. Following the AGM, the board elected its officers: John Tully will continue to serve as Chair of the Board, while Liene Dubava, Roberts Melbardis, Pauls Miklasevics, Ieva Racenaja as Vice Presidents for the next year.

On March 2, AmChams in Europe, AmCham EU, and the U.S. Commercial Service hosted a high-level online discussion celebrating the 2023 International Women’s Day (IWD) under the mantle of the EMPOWER HER initiative. Participants discovered first-hand how the Department of Commerce and the private sector are embracing equity – the theme of this year’s IWD – and empowering women economically, both internally and in their communities. The keynote address was delivered by Marisa Lago, U.S. Undersecretary of Commerce for International Trade. To revisit the event CLICK HERE