Poland’s plastics industry is experiencing dynamic growth, driven by strong demand in processing, packaging and recycling. With EU regulations and the Green Deal reshaping the sector, international exporters—especially from within the EU—are facing a growing number of opportunities to supply advanced technologies, sustainable materials and modern recycling solutions.

Poland has become one of the most active plastics markets in Eastern Europe. The sector employs over 200,000 people, supported by strong production capabilities across packaging, construction materials and automotive components. Continuous investment in polymer production and processing capacity has made the country an increasingly attractive destination for European suppliers and technology partners.

A Strong and Growing Market

Poland ranks as the third-largest exporter of plastic packaging within the European Union. Industry expansion accelerated following EU accession, with companies benefiting from competitive labour costs, a skilled workforce and rising demand for sustainable, recyclable packaging. Today, more than 540,000 tonnes of post-consumer plastic waste are recycled annually, and new investments are driving further improvements in quality and capacity.

Regulation and Sustainability Drive Innovation

The sector is undergoing rapid transformation due to strict EU legislation, including the Single-Use Plastics Directive and the European Green Deal. These policies are reshaping product design, recycling standards and material requirements. For EU exporters, this shift creates strong demand for technologies such as:

• High-performance mechanical recycling systems

• Recyclable multilayer and barrier materials

• Advanced sorting and reprocessing equipment

• Low-carbon, bio-based and circular materials

Companies offering innovative solutions are well positioned to support Polish manufacturers adapting to new sustainability requirements.

Untapped Potential and Expanding Opportunities

Poland still consumes less plastic per capita than the EU average, signalling significant room for future growth. Upcoming measures—such as the Deposit Return System (DRS) and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)—will further stimulate investment in collection, sorting and recycling infrastructure.

Foreign companies can benefit from several entry pathways:

• Partnerships with established Polish processors

• Joint ventures in specialised industrial zones

• Acquisitions of local recycling or packaging firms

• Supplying machinery, materials or technical expertise

With EU funding available and demand rising for sustainable, high-quality plastics solutions, Poland represents one of the most promising markets in the region for exporters looking to expand their presence in Europe.