On October 23, Minister of Economics Viktors Valainis went on a regional visit to Dobele, where he met with representatives of companies from various sectors to discuss their development and future prospects.
During the visit, the minister toured several local businesses, meeting with their representatives to review past achievements, discuss future plans, and learn about the specifics of each sector and their production technologies.
“Local businesses are the backbone of the regional economy, as they not only create jobs but also contribute to the well-being of residents and the development of the town. Meetings like this allow us to establish direct contact with the region’s people, gaining a closer understanding of business challenges, current issues, and development plans. We need to work together to foster a productive business environment, which in turn drives regional development,” emphasized Minister of Economics Viktors Valainis.
At the start of the visit, V. Valainis visited AS “Spodrība,” where he met with company representatives and learned about their production processes. AS “Spodrība” is one of Latvia’s largest companies in the household chemicals, personal care, plant nutrition, and disinfectants sector, known on store shelves under the brands “Seal,” “Seal Cosmetics,” and “Eco Seal For Nature.”
Later, the minister visited the Horticultural Institute and Dobele Lilac Garden, home to Europe’s largest collection of lilac varieties, which attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year. The institute promotes public interest in plant breeding, current research, and horticultural traditions in Latvia, while also offering cultural and scientific events during the active gardening season. During the visit, the minister praised the institute’s efforts to help local producers enhance their export capabilities.
The Horticultural Institute is the leading research center for fruit and vegetable cultivation in the Baltics. It conducts studies in molecular biology, plant pathology, and entomology, develops and adapts modern fruit and vegetable cultivation technologies, and also engages in food processing.
At the end of the visit, EM representatives visited Z/S “Rūķīšu tējas.” Founded in 2000, the company has established itself as one of the most recognized brands in Latvia’s medicinal herb sector. The farm currently manages over 30 hectares, growing more than 40 different medicinal plants, which are processed into over 80 “Rūķīšu tējas” products.
Regional visits are a way to strengthen mutual understanding and foster closer ties between state institutions and local communities. They not only help authorities understand the needs and development potential of local communities but also promote dialogue and trust.
