All stores not located in shopping malls to open for business after Easter

RIGA - All stores that are not located in shopping malls of more than 7,000 square meters in area will be allowed to open after April 7, the government decided today.

Stores in shopping malls whose total area is less than 7,000 square meters will also be open for business, as will be street vending.

At shopping malls of more than 7,000 square meters in area, only grocery stores, hygiene stores, pet stores, pharmacies, book stores and different services outlets will be permitted to operate.

According to the Economics Ministry's estimates, up to 9,000 retail outlets will reopen after April 7.

All stores will have to ensure an area of at least 25 square meters per customer, while services outlets - no less than 15 square meters per customer.

At marketplaces, physical distancing requirements will have to be observed and visitor flows will have to be regulated, and a person in charge of epidemiological requirements will have to be appointed.