On May 7, Central Laboratory officially opened the most advanced clinical laboratory in the Baltics at Grēdu iela 4A, Riga, following a €4.2 million investment. This newly automated facility represents one of the company’s most ambitious projects to date and stands among the largest private-sector contributions to Latvia’s healthcare system in recent years.
Equipped with cutting-edge, next-generation technology, the laboratory can perform up to 5,000 tests per hour, reducing turnaround time by 25%. Its launch has increased the company's overall testing capacity by 50%. The integration of automation and advanced equipment also allows the laboratory to redirect resources toward the development and implementation of innovative diagnostic solutions.
“Investing in healthcare means investing in our people and the future of our country,” emphasized Prime Minister of Latvia Evika Siliņa. “It is essential to develop modern diagnostic capabilities. These advancements make accurate and timely testing more accessible to the people of Latvia, while also enhancing our ability to deliver high-quality services internationally, supporting the growth of knowledge-based industries, and boosting Latvia’s export potential.”
Zane Kaktiņa, Chairwoman of the Board at Central Laboratory, highlighted the significant improvements enabled by the new infrastructure: “This development enhances the accuracy, speed, and overall performance of our laboratory services. We are proud to offer world-class diagnostics to patients in Latvia and to expand collaboration opportunities for medical professionals across the Baltic region. With the launch of the Baltics’ most modern automated laboratory, we have created a forward-looking platform for next-generation diagnostics.”
The strategic value of laboratory services and healthcare investment was also underscored by Minister for the Economy, Viktors Valainis: “By combining innovation, science, and practical solutions, this project delivers substantial benefits for both public health and the economy. Central Laboratory’s large-scale investment of national significance reflects the ambition and capability of local entrepreneurs to operate at the highest international standards. This initiative is a strong example of how Latvia’s private sector can meaningfully contribute to the advancement and accessibility of healthcare, while also enhancing the country's competitiveness in the Baltic region and expanding its export potential.”
The vital role of diagnostics in public health was further emphasized by Āris Kasparāns, Director of the National Health Service: “The creation of this automated laboratory marks a significant milestone for Latvia’s healthcare system. Modern diagnostics are essential for effective disease prevention and treatment. Central Laboratory’s investment extends access to high-quality laboratory services nationwide, crucial for early diagnosis and guiding treatment decisions. This enables physicians to make faster, more accurate choices, streamlining the overall treatment process and potentially lowering healthcare costs.”
Central Laboratory serves patients at more than 100 collection points across Latvia. Analyses are performed in 13 laboratories, ensuring timely and highly accurate results. The new automated facility, equipped with the most advanced technologies in the Baltics, significantly enhances testing capacity and efficiency, while maintaining uncompromising precision.
