Rail Baltica construction in Latvia is becoming an important platform for regional business. To date, 222 companies have registered on the procurement platform of the mainline contractor ERB Rail, the majority of which are local.
According to ERB Rail’s data, 425 companies have so far been identified as potential cooperation partners, with 222 already registered on the procurement platform used to onboard suppliers. Of these, 85% (189 companies) are from Latvia.
The procurement platform operates similarly to the Electronic Procurement System, ensuring a transparent and competitive environment for future tenders. Through the platform, companies can apply for work and service opportunities required by ERB Rail, with a focus on areas such as earthworks, pipeline installation, road construction, construction consultancy, concrete works, metal structures, reinforced concrete supplies, and others.
“Engaging local suppliers is not only a strategic objective – it is a practical necessity to ensure Rail Baltica construction is efficient, timely, and strongly supported locally,” emphasized Andy Swift, ERB Rail Project and Construction Director. “We highly value the responsiveness and professionalism of local businesses, as they will play a key role in integrating Rail Baltica into the Latvian economy.”
The majority of registered companies represent sectors such as engineering networks, road construction, building materials production and supply, quarries, and transport services. Their participation strengthens the project with local expertise, resources, and logistics.
“Rail Baltica is a long-term opportunity for local businesses to become part of a European-scale infrastructure network,” added Swift. “We see strong interest in the regions, and our role is to help turn this interest into concrete cooperation.”
To encourage collaboration, ERB Rail regularly meets with regional businesses.
ERB Rail’s Director of Procurement and Subcontracting, Derek John Clulow, underlined the importance of providing businesses with clear information on upcoming needs: “Even contracts worth €50,000 to €100,000, spread over several years, are significant for local companies. We need to promote these opportunities more actively, beyond word-of-mouth, so businesses can plan ahead and prepare.”