Insight
Poland: Thriving as a business and financial hub in Central Europe
August 2025
As Europe navigates a rapidly changing economy, Poland stands out as a resilient nation offering significant opportunities. Strategically located in Central Europe, this country of 38 million people is a cultural crossroads and a dynamic hub for business and finance. With strong economic growth, a skilled workforce, and a commitment to modernisation, Poland is attracting global attention as a place where opportunities flourish despite global uncertainties.
A resilient economic landscape
Poland’s economic performance over the last twodecades has been remarkable. As the only EU country to avoid recession during the 2008 global financial crisis, it demonstrated unique resilience. According to Eurostat, Poland’s GDP grew by an average of 3.6% annually from 2010 to 2022, significantly outpacing the EU average of 1.4%. In 2024, Poland’s GDP growth rate remained robust at 4.2%, driven by domestic demand, export-oriented industries, and EU structural funds.
This economic stability is underpinned by a diverse industrial base. Poland is a leader in manufacturing, particularly in automotive and electronics, with global giants like Volkswagen and LG operating major plants there. Additionally, its agricultural sector - one of the largest in the EU - and a burgeoning technology industry contribute to its well-rounded economic profile.
Strategic business advantages
Poland’s geographic location serves as a gateway between Western Europe and the rapidly growing markets of Eastern Europe and Asia. This strategic position is enhanced by its European Union membership, granting businesses access to the EU’s single market. Furthermore, the country’s extensive transportation network, featuring modern highways and railways, supports efficient supply chain logistics.
Another key advantage is Poland’s highly educated and multilingual workforce. According to Statistics Poland (GUS), over 40% of Poles aged 25-34 hold tertiary education degrees, with many specialising in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields. This talent pool is strengthened by the country’s robust network of technical universities, producing skilled graduates ready to meet the demands of global businesses.
Key sectors driving growth
Several sectors stand out as particularly vibrant in Poland:
1. Technology and innovation: Poland’s IT sector is experiencing exponential growth. It is now the third-largest software exporter in Europe, according to the Polish Investment and Trade Agency (PAIH). Cities like Kraków, Wrocław, and Warsaw have become hubs for tech startups and multinational IT firms, benefiting from government incentives and EU digitalisation programmes.
2. Renewable energy: Driven by the EU push for climate neutrality by 2050, Poland is investing heavily in renewable energy. The country’s offshore wind market, in particular, is projected to attract over €50 billion in investment by 2040, according to the Polish Wind Energy Association.
3. Manufacturing: Poland remains a manufacturing powerhouse, with significant output in automotive components, machinery, and consumer goods. Its proximity to key European markets makes it an ideal location for manufacturing facilities.
Navigating challenges
While Poland offers substantial opportunities, navigating its business environment requires acknowledging certain challenges. The World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business report 2019 ranked Poland 40th globally, citing areas for improvement such as the complexity of regulatory processes and tax compliance. However, the government is actively addressing these issues through digital transformation initiatives, such as the introduction of the e-Tax platform, which simplifies tax reporting.
Labour market constraints also pose challenges. Although Poland has a highly skilled workforce, the country faces demographic pressures from an ageing population. To address this, the government has implemented policies to attract foreign workers and increase labour participation among underrepresented groups.
Accounting and financial trends
Poland’s accounting and financial sectors are evolving rapidly to meet global standards. The adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) for public companies has increased transparency and attracted foreign investment. Additionally, the Polish Ministry of Finance’s focus on digital bookkeeping and e-invoicing aligns with broader EU trends, ensuring compliance whilst reducing administrative burdens for businesses. The Polish financial market has become increasingly prominent. The Warsaw Stock Exchange (WSE) is now one of the largest in Central Europe, with its benchmark index, WIG20, reflecting the country’s economic vitality. According to WSE data, market capitalisation reached €255 billion in 2024, driven by listings in technology and green energy sectors.
Conclusion
Poland’s emergence as a thriving business and financial hub is no accident. Its strategic location, resilient economy, and forward-thinking policies make it a prime destination for investment and growth. While challenges remain, the country’s commitment to modernisation and innovation signals a bright future. For businesses seeking to expand into Central Europe, Poland offers a compelling blend of opportunity and stability. As one of the fastest growing economies in the EU, it continues to be a place where ambition meets possibility, making it an ideal partner for global enterprises seeking success in a competitive world.
About the author
Dr Andrzej Dmowski
Warsaw, Poland
Andrzej has a PhD in Law, is an Advocate, Statutory Tax and Restructuring Advisor, CPA (Ireland), Chartered Certified Accountant (ACCA), Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), and Certified Internal Controls Auditor (CICA). He is a Court Expert in Finance and Business Valuation and lectures at the University of Warsaw, Warsaw School of Economics, and other professional institutions. Since 2011, he has been a Managing Partner at Russell Bedford Poland. An author of numerous tax law publications, he specialises in interdisciplinary issues in tax, accounting, and commercial law.