Manufacture of chemicals, pharmaceuticals and biopharmaceuticals, rubber and plastic products, coating materials, medical devices and cosmetics, alongside biotechnology, bio-based chemicals, biorefineries and green materials.

• Among the three Baltic States, Latvia leads the life science sector with the highest value-added. It reached 52.4 % in pharmaceutical manufacturing and 20.2% in chemical production in 2020.
• This sector is nothing without innovation and the introduction of new products and services. Due to the historical roots, many years of know-how, legacy, and production, we provide an established manufacturing infrastructure. Also, we are proud of a long-standing tradition in chemistry.
• Latvia’s pharmaceutical sector plays a specialised role in the economy, supported by a strong industrial and scientific base.

• We believe in export, and export believes in us. Pharmaceuticals are leading the export, making up 27% of total industry exports. In 2022, the total turnover of the pharmaceutical sector reached 314 million euros!
• Most parts of the goods are shipped abroad. We export 76.7% of the manufactured chemicals and pharmaceutical products. Pharmaceuticals compile 1.3% of total national exports (2023).
• The sector is currently ranked 5th by turnover and 4th by export amount among manufacturing industries in Latvia (2023). 

• This sector is so rapidly growing in Latvia that we sometimes can't keep up! Well, as of now the number of employees in chemical and pharmaceutical companies exceeds 8 300. Moreover, Latvia ranks 1st in the EU for the share of women among scientists and engineers, significantly exceeding the EU average. Eurostat, 2026.
• When you graduate with a degree in life sciences, you will find a wide range of career opportunities in Latvia. There are more than 500 companies operating across the broader life sciences and chemical ecosystem, including pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and related sectors.
• Where to study? Top choices include Riga Stradiņš University, a regional leader in medical education, and University of Latvia, with its modern Academic Centre for advanced research. Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies specializes in is biosciences, agriculture, forestry, and bio-based engineering, while Riga Technical University drives innovation in engineering, materials science and applied chemistry, supporting the life sciences and chemical sectors.

• Biosan 
  Manufacturer of laboratory equipment for biomedical diagnostics, biotechnology, and life sciences, specializing in sample preparation for genomics, proteomics, and cellomics. 
• FIBENOL 
  The company develops advanced biomaterials from hardwood and converts over 90% of biomass into high-value products using innovative, low-impact technology. Company is developing a new biorefinery in Valmiera city industrial park, using the biorefining method, to produce bio-based materials from wood. 
• ASNS Ingredient 
  Is set to become a major plant‑based smart‑nutrition ingredients producer in Latvia, specialising in the extraction and refinement of yellow pea fractions. Company will produce Protein Isolate, Fiber (Extruded hulls, Soluble fiber), Native Starch, Starch Concentrate, Yeast, Feed Protein from peas and fava beans. 
• Latvijas Finieris 
  One of the Baltic region’s leading birch plywood producers, focusing on high-value engineered wood products. Betulin Lab is a part of Latvijas Finieris Group, focusing on the birch bark extract substances, also known as biologically active compounds  – triterpenes, purification of betulin and carrying out further research on its properties across various industries. 
• Valmieras stikla šķiedra 
  Currently one of the largest glass fiber manufacturers in Europe with more than 50 years of experience.
• Madara Cosmetics  
  An internationally recognised natural and organic skincare brand, developing high-value products based on certified natural ingredients. The company exports to more than 35 countries and combines green chemistry with sustainable product innovation.

• Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis (LIOS)
  The Baltic region’s premier drug discovery and development centre, with a track record of 18 original medicines and over 100 technologies delivered to industry. The institute provides full-cycle R&D from discovery to preclinical development and collaborates globally as a contract research organisation (CRO).
• Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre (BMC)
  The country’s flagship institution for genomics, molecular biology and biotechnology. A key driver of precision medicine, biobank development and biomedical data initiatives.
• Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia
  A leading regional centre for materials science and nanotechnology, developing advanced functional materials for applications in photonics, sensors, and medical technologies.
• Latvian State Institute of Wood Chemistry
  A leading Baltic research centre in biomass valorisation, combining expertise in wood chemistry, green synthesis, and advanced materials. The institute develops bio-based solutions for industrial, environmental, and healthcare applications through integrated fundamental and applied research. Pilot infrastructure supporting TRL 4–6 development.

• Institute of Food Safety, Animal Health and Environment BIOR
  A national research centre specialising in food safety, veterinary science, and environmental health. BIOR provides scientific support to regulatory authorities and industry while developing applied solutions to enhance public health and safety.

• Latvian State Forest Research Institute Silava
  Forest research centre, the leader of scientific ideas in forestry and related research and development in Latvia.

Latvia’s life sciences research ecosystem covers the full R&D value chain, from fundamental science to applied research, supported by strong university -industry collaboration.