Poland's largest trading partners

Poland’s economy and export structure in 2023 and 2024 are closely intertwined with international markets, with the European Union countries, especially Germany, playing a pivotal role, along with China and the United States. In the face of fluctuating economic and geopolitical conditions, Poland has strengthened its trade relationships with select countries while also seeking new partners in regions like Asia, North America, and the Middle East.

Germany – Poland’s Largest Trade Partner

Germany has long been Poland’s top trade partner. In 2023, the German market accounted for 28% of Poland's total exports, translating to a value of 264.5 billion PLN, while imports amounted to 181.1 billion PLN, about 20% of all imports to Poland. The main exports to Germany include vehicles and automotive parts, machinery, electrical devices, and food products. Economic ties are bolstered by direct investments, with German companies among the largest foreign investors in Poland, which strengthens economic relations between the two nations. Poland enjoys a trade surplus with Germany, which positively impacts its balance of payments and strengthens the position of Polish industry in the European market.

China – Strategic Partner and Challenge

China ranks second in terms of import value to Poland, though the trade relationship is notably imbalanced. Imports from China, primarily electronics, textiles, electrical devices, and industrial products, amounted to approximately 123.2 billion PLN in 2023, accounting for 13.3% of Poland’s total imports. In contrast, Polish exports to China represent only about 1% of the value of Chinese exports to Poland, leading to a significant trade deficit. Despite these challenges, the Chinese market remains attractive for Polish businesses specializing in specific products like furniture, agri-food items, copper, and certain machinery.

France and Czechia – Stable EU Partners

France and Czechia also play an important role in Polish exports, accounting for 6.3% of Poland’s total exports, with exports to France valued at approximately 59.2 billion PLN and exports to Czechia at 59.4 billion PLN. Poland’s exports to France include machinery, automotive goods, furniture, food items, and plastics. Trade with France has been growing steadily, and Poland imports primarily vehicles, electrical devices, plastics, and pharmaceutical products from France. France is also the third-largest foreign investor in Poland, which boosts the number of French businesses operating in the Polish market.

The United Kingdom, Italy, and the Netherlands – Major Export Markets

The United Kingdom remains one of Poland’s key trading partners, despite Brexit. Polish exports to the UK reached approximately 46.9 billion PLN in 2023 and include primarily automotive products, machinery, furniture, and food. Italy and the Netherlands also play an important role in Poland’s foreign trade. Exports to Italy amounted to 44.2 billion PLN and to the Netherlands to 41.7 billion PLN. Poland exports vehicles, machinery, and agri-food products to Italy, while importing mainly cars, vehicle parts, pharmaceuticals, and industrial goods. The Netherlands, in turn, is a major supplier of technology and agricultural products.

The United States – Key Non-European Partner

The United States is an important non-European trade partner for Poland, ranking seventh among Polish export destinations. In 2023, Polish exports to the U.S. were valued at 29.1 billion PLN, covering primarily machinery, electrical devices, agricultural products, and furniture. Imports from the U.S. totaled 39.3 billion PLN and included primarily machinery, electronics, and chemical industry products. The trade balance with the U.S. is nearly balanced, and the U.S. is also one of the leading foreign investors in Poland, supporting the growth of technology and service sectors.

New Challenges and Directions for Foreign Trade

The year 2023 brought many challenges for Polish trade, including rising raw material costs and an energy crisis due to the war in Ukraine. Production and transport costs rose, prompting Polish companies to adapt to the new environment. Imports of mineral fuels, which had previously dominated the trade structure, decreased by 5.9% due to trade restrictions with Russia. As a result, Poland forged closer relationships with suppliers from Norway and the United States to diversify its sources.

In the face of global challenges, Poland aims to expand its presence in high-growth markets such as the Middle East, Africa, and South America. Export promotion and support programs for Polish companies operating internationally could significantly boost trade growth. In the outlook for 2024, further export growth is projected, particularly in the technology, agricultural, and food sectors, which will help Poland maintain dynamic development and increase its share in the global market.

Poland strives to solidify its position as a key exporter in the region, supporting innovation and new technologies, while cooperating with select non-European markets. These efforts aim to diversify export structures and reduce dependence on main partners, which will be crucial in the event of further geopolitical changes.