Research
The Institute of Agricultural Resources and Economics (AREI) is one of Latvia’s leading research institutions in agriculture, bioeconomy, and rural development. With more than 100 years of experience in crop breeding and agricultural research, the Institute develops science-based solutions for sustainable farming, food systems, and the bioeconomy.
AREI researchers study crop production technologies, develop new plant varieties, assess the impacts of climate change on agriculture, and conduct economic research in the agricultural, food, and fisheries sectors.
The Institute combines long-standing scientific expertise, modern technologies, and close collaboration with farmers, businesses, and policymakers to generate knowledge that strengthens the competitiveness and sustainability of Latvian agriculture.
Key research areas include:
- Cereals, legumes, potatoes, oilseed crops, hemp, flax, soybean, and other field crops
- Environmentally friendly crop production technologies
- Soil and plant health
- Precision agriculture using drones, remote sensing, and digital technologies
- Integrated weed, pest, and disease management
Knowledge Transfer
AREI’s research contributes to Latvia’s economy as well as the national and international scientific community. The Institute actively participates in European Union research projects and promotes the transfer of knowledge and technology to the agricultural sector.
Its activities include providing expert consultations, organizing international scientific conferences, seminars, annual field days and demonstration events, and collaborating with farmers, businesses, public authorities, and international partners. Research results support the implementation of innovative solutions in practice and help shape evidence-based agricultural policy.
Field Crop Breeding and Trials
AREI maintains extensive collections of plant genetic resources and conducts long-term field trials across different regions of Latvia. Its breeders develop new varieties of cereals, legumes, potatoes, and other crops that are adapted to Latvian growing conditions and offer high yield, quality, and resilience to diseases and changing climatic conditions.
Four Research Centres Across Latvia
AREI operates four research centres located in Priekuļi, Stende, Viļāni, and Riga. This regional network enables research under diverse agro-climatic conditions and facilitates effective knowledge transfer throughout the country. It also ensures close cooperation with farmers and the practical testing and implementation of scientific innovations across Latvia.
