RIGA, Dec 17 (LETA) - During the time period from December 19 until January 11, there will restrictions in trade of non-essential goods, while the range of allowed goods will be expanded, according to the amendments to the regulations on the state of emergency adopted by the government today.

Only stores selling food products hygiene goods and necessity goods, tobacco products, plant tobacco goods, electronic smoking devices and liquids, pet food and products, press, public transport tickets, face masks and individual protection products, local agricultural produce, pre-paid mobile cards, flowers and Christmas trees.

Construction materials and goods may be sold in wholesale.

The Economics Ministry explained that the range of hygiene goods include teeth, hair and body care products, disinfectants, toilet paper, hand towels, diapers and other goods.

Household goods include goods necessary for heating, heating devices, mobile phones, matches, lighters, batteries, light bulbs, candles and others.

Local agricultural produce include fruit, vegetables, honey, fish and animal products, home-made food products.

In the coming three weeks also pharmacies, veterinary pharmacies, optical goods stores and fuel stations will remain open.

More detailed lists of shops and good that will be available will be prepared by the Economics Ministry.

Online trade will not be restricted.

Stores will have to ensure at least 15 square meters space for each customer. The customer flow should be regulated with shopping baskets or shopping carts. 

As reported, to contain the spread of Covid-19, Latvia has introduced a state of emergency from November 9 to January 11, introducing requirements to wear face masks indoors, restrictions on gathering of people, trade of non-essential goods at weekends and during holidays. Today, the government decided on even harsher restrictions.