On June, 27 2006 new rules regulating smoking come into force in Latvia.

In accordance with the new rules, adopted by the Ministry of Health Care, one may be allowed to smoke only in specially allotted rooms. In public places, namely in cafes, bars, restaurants and casinos such rooms must be ventilated. Besides, smoking places will be indicated by a special symbol.

Such limitations are imposed in order to harmonize Latvian legislation with the standards of the European Union.