It is worth knowing the limits for transporting alcohol and cigarettes across the Latvian border. When entering Latvia from Russia or another non-EU country, one litre of strong spirits, for example vodka, whisky, brandy, and cognac; or two litres of light alcohol, such as wine, liqueurs, or other strong drinks produced on the base of wine or grain alcohol, for example sake and similar beverages, can be carried without paying taxes.

Criminal liability can be threatened if a customs officer discovers just two 0.7 litre vodka bottles in a traveller’s baggage which have not been declared and paid tax on. So it is better to pay tax if you wish to give Russian vodka as a present to friends in Riga. Excise tax must be paid at LVL 8.9 per litre of absolute alcohol plus VAT, which for one litre of vodka comes to around LVL 4.30. Meanwhile, a half litre bottle of beer would require a payment of around 13 santims.

Entering from European Union countries, 110 litres of beer, 90 litres of wine or similar products, 20 litres of medium-strength alcoholic drinks, or 10 litres of spirits can be brought for personal use. These rules apply to both entry and departure from Latvia. Only 40 cigarettes may be brought from Russia, the U.S., or other countries outside the European Union.