Latvia - Current situation - History

18.01.2018

There are ongoing consultations within the radio industry in Latvia about possible future deployment of DAB+.
Network operator LVRTC started a technical DAB+ trial December 2016 with the The National Electronic Mass Media Council (NEPLP). The transmissions are on Block 12D and currently cover 60% of the population of Latvia. The trial is free of charge for radio stations participating (LVRTC work with LR and also commercial radio). Latvian Radio, with six simulcast radio stations and five internet radio stations, will be the first customers. Commercial radio stations can be on the trial from 2017. The multiplex has capacity for 16 radio stations.

On 28 December 2017 the NEPLP confirmed the National Strategic 2012 - 2018 (Agenda) and decided to continue digital audio tests. Download the National Strategy document. See section 15.4.

Initial line up of multiplex:

LR-1
LR-2
LR-3
LR-4
LR-5
LR-6 NABA
LR-5 Atklajumi
LR-5 Hiti
LR-5 Riti
LR-5 Koncerti
LR-5 Latviesi

The trials will take place over a one-year period before LVRTC may start regular DAB+ transmissions in Riga.

Sporadic DAB+ test broadcasts are also on air on channel 13B as broadcasters are testing equipment.

The Ministry of Transportation sent enquiry letters to all communications companies asking about DAB digital radio implementation in Latvia. Replies were due on 29 February, 2016. A meeting with the NEPLP, ECO and LVRTC to discuss whether commercial radio will join the trial local multiplex in Riga this Autumn is scheduled the commening 14 August 2017.