It is worth paying attention to the following points at business meetings in Latvia:

• In general, business behavior in Latvia is similar to that in the rest of Europe; a handshake before and after a meeting is customary and acceptable.
  Care should be taken to shake hands with everyone present at a meeting.
  A kiss on the cheek and a slight embrace is acceptable at a meeting of acquaintances.
• Immediately after shaking hands at the start of the meeting, it is customary to exchange business cards.
  See that you have a sufficient quantity of business cards.
• The acceptable dress for a business meeting is a business suit for men.
  Women are recommended to dress fashionably, but not loudly.
• Most business people in large cities in Latvia, particularly those under the age of 30, have a good command of English.
  Nevertheless, a few words in Latvian will turn the meeting into a warm and friendly encounter.
  The presence of a translator will help a business meeting to progress.
• Latvians tend to be cold and formal at a first meeting.
  This impression is changed very quickly once a suitable acquaintanceship has been made.
• Acceptable gifts for business meetings are items for the office, pens (including pens with your company logo) as well as selected wines.
• It takes some time to be able to fix a meeting.
  Remember that frequently, senior executives acquired their experience in the former Communist regime.
  Confirm in advance, before the meeting, by fax or letter, that the meeting will take place.
• You are recommended to avoid business meetings in the months of July and August or around the times of national holidays.
• The Latvians are very proud of Latvian culture.
  Jokes that are detrimental to Latvian culture should be avoided.