Summary
Latvia's Law on the Latvian Artificial Intelligence Centre came into force on March 20, 2025, establishing a state-supported foundation to foster AI ecosystem development. The centre aims to attract €500 million in investments over five years.
Latvia has established a National Artificial Intelligence Centre under legislation that came into force on March 20, 2025, positioning the country as a regional leader in coordinated AI development.
The Law on the Latvian Artificial Intelligence Centre (adopted March 6, 2025) creates a state-supported foundation to:
- Foster an AI ecosystem in Latvia
- Coordinate public-private-academic cooperation
- Support innovation and skills development
- Mitigate AI-related risks
This follows the "Law on the Development of Artificial Intelligence" introduced on January 21, 2025.
EU AI Act implementation:
Latvia's Ministry of Environmental Protection and Regional Development (VARAM) is designated as the responsible authority for AI Act implementation. Market surveillance will be carried out by multiple agencies:
- Consumer Rights Protection Centre
- Health Inspectorate
- State Data Inspectorate
- State Security Service
- And seven additional specialized agencies
The Ombudsman will perform functions for the protection of fundamental rights under the AI Act.
Current AI adoption in Latvia:
- 17% of state institutions already use AI solutions
- 22% are planning implementation
- 55% lack a clear plan for AI use
Investment projections:
The Ministry of Economics suggests that in the first five years, the centre could:
- Attract €500 million in investments for projects developed within the centre
- Implement five international projects in collaboration with global companies
- Introduce 2-3 AI-based solutions annually in public administration
The Latvian Association of Artificial Intelligence (MILA), established in 2024, is working alongside the new centre to strengthen the country's AI ecosystem.
For legal technology specifically, the centre creates a coordination point for regulatory sandboxes and compliance guidance as firms navigate EU AI Act requirements.