Commission Report (2002): Latvia

Chapter 1: Free movement of goods

Alignment of public procurement legislation continued and administrative capacity in this field has been strengthened in terms of increase in staff and training as required by the Action Plan. While implementation is generally on track, the adoption of the policy document concerning the development of the public procurement system has been delayed. The transposition of the New Approach Directives as concerns food legislation is well advanced. Progress was made regarding the strengthening of the administrative capacity of the Food and Veterinary Service and legislative and institutional preparations (in the field of food) are on track, including further training of food safety inspectors as required by the Action Plan. Moreover, the renewal of existing marketing authorisations for pharmaceuticals is well advanced and strengthening of administrative capacity of the State Agency of Medicines and the State Pharmaceutical Inspection is proceeding according to schedule. The screening of Latvian legislation in the non-harmonised area has been completed. Supplementary administrative resources have been allocated to strengthen the administrative capacity of the State Heritage Inspectorate. In accordance with the requirements of the Action Plan, the national accreditation system has been reinforced and the national metrology system has been upgraded through intensified training and upgrading of equipment. The reform of the market surveillance system is proceeding as scheduled; the Consumer Rights Protection Centre set up several regional offices as a result of an increased budget and strengthened public awareness as foreseen in the Action Plan. No progress was made regarding bodies for notification procedures. Adoption of EN standards is on track. Overall, the Accession Partnership priorities in the area of free movement of goods have been met to a considerable extent. The time schedule set in the Action Plan is being largely respected.