Riga is home to one of the fastest-growing life science ecosystems in the Baltics, combining internationally recognised pharmaceutical manufacturing, biotechnology, medical technologies, digital health and world-class research capabilities. Supported by a highly skilled workforce, strong export performance and growing R&D investment, Riga offers an attractive location for companies developing the next generation of healthcare solutions.
Building on decades of expertise in pharmaceuticals, chemistry and biotechnology, Riga has evolved into a leading life science hub in Northern Europe. The city combines internationally competitive manufacturing with advanced biomedical research, digital health innovation and a rapidly growing biotechnology ecosystem. Close collaboration between industry, universities and research institutes enables companies to accelerate product development, clinical research and international growth.
Why Riga?
Export-Oriented Life Sciences Industry
Strong Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Base
Biomedical Research & Innovation
Biotechnology & Digital Health Ecosystem
Highly Skilled Scientific Talent
Competitive Business Environment
Fastest Growing Sectors
Pharmaceuticals
Biotechnology
Medical Technologies
Digital Health
Chemical Manufacturing
Precision Medicine
Largest Companies
Numbers
EUR 1.26 billion industry turnover
532 life science companies
8,300+ employees
74% of production is exported
EUR 728 million in pharmaceutical exports
Growing private R&D investment
Files for download
Economic profile of Riga 2026
Life-science industry in Riga 2026
One-pager: life-science industry in Riga 2026
Key Benefits
Established pharmaceutical and biotechnology ecosystem with internationally recognised manufacturers and innovative startups.
Strong biomedical research base, supported by universities, research institutes and cross-sector collaboration.
Rapidly growing biotechnology and digital health ecosystem, driving innovation in diagnostics, genomics, AI and personalised medicine.
Highly export-oriented industry, with approximately 74% of production reaching international markets.
Growing investment in research and development, supported by increasing private sector funding and dedicated R&D financing instruments.
Highly qualified scientific workforce, combining experienced researchers with a strong pipeline of graduates in life sciences, medicine and engineering.
Dedicated investment support, including the Green Corridor initiative and a broad range of government programmes supporting innovation, R&D, digitalisation and exports.
Competitive tax environment, including 0% corporate income tax on reinvested profits and internationally competitive operating costs.
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