Poland has become a hotspot for investments in recent years. Based on the country’s strategic location and growing economy, it's a good choice for both local and foreign investors. In this article, we'll explore the various ways you can invest in Poland and why it's a good idea to do business in Poland.
Special Economic Zones (SEZs): Boosting Investments
Poland has strategically established Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in different areas to attract investments and boost the economy, making them prime locations for business in Poland. Companies that set up offices in these zones can enjoy tax breaks, reduced bureaucracy, and improved infrastructure. For example, the Legnica Special Economic Zone focuses on industries like electronics, automotive, and renewable energy, offering compelling investment opportunities in Poland.
Government Grants: Investment Growth
If you are in the manufacturing or services sectors, especially in modern services, you can receive financial help from the government. This support comes from the Programme for Supporting Investment of Strategic Importance for the Polish Economy 2011-2030, and you don't have to pay anything back. The program is not just for existing businesses in Poland; even newcomers can apply.
The program covers different types of investments in Poland, like starting new businesses, expanding existing ones, changing production methods, and buying assets from closing businesses. You can only start your project after applying for State Aid through the Ministry responsible for the economy.
Support under this program depends on factors like the number of jobs one creates, the investment costs, and additional assistance for employee training, all of which contribute to the business in Poland. To qualify, you must meet specific criteria related to your project's scope and its impact, including the promotion of sustainable practices and regional development.
A significant obligation for large enterprises seeking support is the requirement to cooperate with Institutions of Higher Education, contributing at least 15% of the granted support's value. This collaboration could involve conducting research in Poland, sponsoring scientific projects, or participating in educational programs, providing a unique dimension to business in Poland.
Investing in Key Sectors in Poland
1. Business Services Sector (BSS)
Poland stands as a leader in the Central and Eastern European Business Services Sector (BSS), offering remarkable investment opportunities in Poland. It boasts numerous BSS centers, comprising approximately 70% of all such centers in the region and employing about half of the workforce in Central and Eastern Europe. This sector has witnessed continuous growth since the mid-1990s, making it an attractive choice for investing in Poland.
Investors can have various options for where to set up their business in Poland, including big cities like Kraków, Warsaw, Wrocław, Poznań, the Tricity, Katowice, and Łódź, as well as smaller cities on the rise.
2. Pharmaceuticals Sector
Pharmaceutical industry in Poland has been growing, with sales expected to reach billions of PLN from 2018 to 2021, creating significant investment opportunities in Poland. Although still not as much as Western countries, Poland invests a big amount into research and development (R&D).
3. Aerospace Sector
Poland has attracted some of the world's leading aviation companies in the last decade, fostering investment opportunities in Poland. The country set up production plants, especially for engines and their parts, in southeastern Poland, forming the "Aviation Valley."
Poland has over 200 companies in the aviation and space industries, making up to 8.5 billion PLN (1.8 billion EUR) in sales and creating over 18,000 jobs. Most of these businesses are small or medium-sized and often have foreign investment. About 80% of them are in the southeastern region, forming one of three aviation clusters.
4. Food Processing Sector
Poland's food sector is strong, with a 44.1% export rate, worth PLN 23.4 billion (5.1 billion EUR) in 2020. It has 1,274 companies with EUR 53 billion in sales, making up 26% of industrial product manufacturing.
Big international players like Danone, Heinz, Unilever, Mondelez, and Nestle have been investing in Poland since the 1990s. Many of Poland's own brands are also well-known abroad, like Mlekovita, Mlekpol, Maspex, Hortex, Wyborowa Sobieski, Tymbark, Grycan, Wedel, Sokołów, Pudliszki, Kujawski, and Winiary.
The Polish government supports the food industry by offering grants and tax incentives through Special Economic Zones, making it an even more attractive sector for investing in Poland. They're also encouraging innovation in agri-food technologies, processes, and products.
Conclusion: Poland, a Growing Investment Hub
Poland is becoming an exciting hub for investments. As it expands its presence on the global scale, it remains a top choice for individuals and businesses looking to benefit from the thriving business environment in Poland. Explore the diverse investment opportunities in Poland, take advantage of government grants, and thrive in Poland's growing economy.
Source: PAIH
If you are interested in Polish news on investment and business, you can subscribe to Spondeo’s free monthly newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/7023576551191384065/
Comments