STRATEGIC MARKET ENTRY IN A TRANSFORMING ENERGY SECTOR: THE CASE OF LATVIAN NATURAL GAS INDUSTRY
Date
2025
Authors
Boiko, Kostiantyn
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Abstract
This paper examines how new market entrants can effectively enter Latvia’s natural gas sector in the wake of its recent full liberalization and the region’s shift away from Russian gas imports. By integrating Porter’s value chain framework (firm-level analysis) with Gereffi’s global value chain (industry-level perspective), the study identifies key entry strategies—including securing long-term LNG capacities, leveraging the Inčukalns Underground Gas Storage (UGS), and offering innovative digital or green retail services. Findings suggest that while state-monopoly elements in transmission and distribution remain, the fully liberalized retail sector and diversified LNG infrastructure offer compelling opportunities for both large multinational firms and smaller niche suppliers. Ultimately, these insights contribute to ongoing discussions about Europe’s energy security, diversification, and the broader Baltic region’s path toward sustainable and resilient gas markets. Future research may explore biomethane and hydrogen integration.
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Keywords
Latvia natural gas, market entry, liberalization, LNG, value chain
Citation
Boiko, K. (2025). Strategic Market Entry in a Transforming Energy Sector: The Case of Latvian Natural Gas Industry. Kyiv: American University Kyiv. 39 p.