The Potential of Polish-British Economic Cooperation is a report prepared by Business Intel – a Market Intelligence & Strategy agency specialising in strategic analysis for businesses, non-governmental organisations, and the public sector. The report was commissioned by the British Polish Chamber of Commerce (BPCC). It provides an analysis of the current state and future outlook of economic relations between Poland and the United Kingdom. The document highlights the dynamic growth of trade cooperation, which has increased by 35% over the past five years, reaching a value of €36.4 billion in 2023. The authors emphasise the significance of the UK as Poland’s fourth-largest export market and the growing activity of Polish businesses in the British market, with direct investments exceeding £460 million in 2022. The report serves as a key source of information for entrepreneurs and investors interested in Polish-British cooperation and identifies areas with the greatest growth potential.
Exports and Imports in Numbers
The United Kingdom remains Poland’s fourth-largest export market. In 2023, the value of Polish exports to the UK reached €17.5 billion, while imports amounted to €6.1 billion. The total trade volume stood at €23.6 billion, reflecting a 21% increase compared to 2018. The export structure is dominated by machinery, equipment, transport goods, and food products. Poland maintains a significant trade surplus with the UK, amounting to €11.4 billion.
In the services sector, Poland recorded a remarkable increase. The UK ranks as the third-largest recipient of Polish services (7.7%) and the second-largest provider (8.1%). This growth is driven by IT, consultancy, financial, and outsourcing services, further establishing Poland as a key business hub in Central and Eastern Europe.
British Investments in Poland
British investments in Poland have reached an impressive level. Their cumulative value stands at PLN 91.4 billion, marking a 103% increase compared to 2018. More than 1,400 companies with British capital operate in Poland, employing 113,000 people.
Leading British firms such as GSK, BP, Castorama, and HSBC play a crucial role in the Polish economy. Notably, 51% of companies listed in the London Stock Exchange’s FTSE 100 index have already invested in Poland.
Polish Companies in the United Kingdom
Polish businesses are increasingly expanding into the UK market. In 2022, Polish direct investments in the UK reached £460 million – a historic record. Polish companies such as InPost, Atlas, and TFKable have achieved significant success in the UK, creating new jobs and strengthening Poland’s presence in the British market.
According to the BPCC report, many Polish entrepreneurs view the UK as a key platform for global expansion due to its business-friendly regulations, well-developed infrastructure, and extensive transcontinental trade links.
Outlook and Future Prospects
Economic relations between Poland and the UK are stronger than ever. The increase in trade exchange, rising investment values, and the dynamic development of cooperation in strategic sectors indicate that both economies have immense growth potential. Opportunities for further collaboration include energy transition, digitalisation of the economy, and enhanced academic and start-up exchange, making this partnership even more promising for the years ahead.
