This paper deals with the factors related to the export of Latvia and its positive impact on the business development in Latvia. It also states that export should be viewed as the primary force for business development in Latvia.

Evaluation of virulences of Blumeria graminis f.sp. hordei was started in Latvia in 1981, first in the Baltic States. Until 1994 the observations were carried out only in the central part of Latvia - Salaspils. As the climatic factors and the used barley varieties in various parts of Latvia are different, in 1995 we started regular observations of the particularities of the genetic structure of the pathogen population also in Daugavpils. The aim of this investigation was to detect particularities of the genetic structure of the pathogen population in different parts of Latvia in 1996-2000.

This article examines the development of Latvian foreign trade with three Scandinavian countries in a historical and globalization context. Economic relations of Latvia with Denmark, Norway and Sweden began in 1919 when none of these countries had recognised Latvia de iure. The interwar period was the period of the final decline of the first globalisation wave. Latvia as an agricultural country had to find markets for its products both near and far.

One of the main goals of agriculture policy in Latvia is to re-establish Latvian sheep breed for its biodiversity and grow up qualitative breed material for needs of farmers and small holding economies. Sheep-farming in Latvia could develop if it finds a foreign market. Therefore it is necessary to work out common activity programme for Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia to conclude treaties with countries that are interested in buying this produce.

In order to identify the quality of natural Silver birch stands in Latvia, fifteen sample plots covering all country's regions were established. Stem quality affecting morphological traits - stem straightness, branch angle, branching thickness and branching patterns were measured and assessed to all birches in sample plots. To compare the stand's quality, the integral quality indicator was introduced. According to results obtained in plots, most quality birch stands in Latvia are located in East and North parts of Latvia. The best stands proved to be in Aluksne and Smiltene. Birch stands in West part of Latvia had stems of substantially lower quality. The best quality stand in this region was birch stand located in Tukuma's head forestry.

Geomagnetic studies in Latvia have been made twice in its history: in the 20s and the 30s of the 20th century when Latvia first gained independence, and from the 60s to the 90s when these studies served the military purposes of the Soviet Union. Now when Latvia has regained independence there is a need to resume geomagnetic studies and to be involved in geomagnetic research projects of the European Union. Three staff members of the SLS Geodesy Board made a study visit to Oulu University to learn the methodology of geomagnetic research and to gain some practical skills at the Sodankila Geophysics Observatory. Contacts were established and information collected, which will contribute to the development of a magnetometric research concept in Latvia.

Hull-less or naked barley was rediscovered in Western Canada. Hull-less trait is one of the desirable traits for feed barley. Compared with hulled barley cultivars, hull-less cultivars have reduced fibre content and increased protein content. Due to the high nutritional value of hull-less barley it will became an alternative high-energy source in feed and food with good functional properties. In the years 2000-2001 the hull-less lines bred at the Latvia University of Agriculture and varieties and lines with diverse origin were estimated under conditions of Latvia. The results showed that the lines bred in Latvia are characterized by higher protein content but there is a need for improving their agronomic traits. The varieties and lines from Canada, Czech Republic and Sweden are the most suitable for the conditions of Latvia.

In total, 324 species of Carabidae are known in Latvia. Of them 2 species are listed in Latvia for the first time, but 5 species are deleted from the check-list of Latvian Carabidae.

The paper deals with the dairy products situation in Latvia. The author has analyzed dairy products production and consumption in Latvia and the Baltic states. Main attention is given to the examination of a company. The author's recommendation to the government is to use economics regulation methods.

The development of organic farming in Latvia and the situation in the rest of the world is characterized in the paper. The factors determining the growth of organic farming was investigated, as well as the market situation. Also aspects that must be undertaken in marketing strategy of organic products in Latvia were examined. Investigation approved, that in order to satisfy needs of consumers and income of producers, optimal marketing strategy must be elaborated and co-ordinated by officials as well as supported by organic farmers. Based on the results of the investigation, conclusions are made up concerning the market situation and marketing of organic products in Latvia.