Doing Business with Poland

A comprehensive guide to doing business, exporting, investing, and manufacturing in Poland.

Foreign Direct Investment with the International Trade Council / Company Incorporation / Company Formation

Albanian Investment Development Agency

Tel: +355 42 251 001
Email: info@aida.gov.al
Web: www.aida.gov.al

null

General Directorate of Customs

Albania General Directorate of Customs - International Trade Council

 

Tel: +355 42 253 820
Email: helpdesk.dpd@dogana.gov.al
Web: www.dogana.gov.al

National Chamber of Commerce

Albanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Albanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry - International Trade Council

Tel: +355 45 800 932
Email: cci.tirana@cci.al
Web: www.cci.al

Ministry of Economy Information from the International Trade Council - a Peak-body - international chamber of commerce

Ministry of Finance and Economy, Albania

  • Type of Government: Parliamentary Republic
  • Population: Approximately 38 million
  • GDP: Around $680 billion USD
  • Corporate Tax Rate: 19%
  • Personal Income Tax Rate: 12% to 32%
  • Major Exports: Machinery, vehicles, electronics, furniture, food products
  • Major Imports: Machinery, vehicles, electronics, chemicals, fuels

 

Exporting goods to Poland involves several key steps. Here’s a comprehensive guide:

  1. Research Market Requirements

    • Understand Poland’s import regulations and product standards.
  2. Identify Your Product’s HS Code

    • Determine the Harmonized System (HS) code to understand tariffs and regulations.
  3. Prepare Documentation

    • Gather necessary export documents: commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, and bill of lading.
  4. Check Tariff and Non-Tariff Barriers

    • Verify any tariffs and ensure compliance with Poland’s non-tariff measures.
  5. Select a Reliable Freight Forwarder

    • Choose a logistics provider experienced in shipping to Poland.
  6. Comply with Labeling and Packaging Regulations

    • Ensure your products meet local labeling and packaging standards.
  7. Arrange for Insurance

    • Secure insurance to cover potential shipping risks.
  8. Submit Customs Declaration

    • Work with your freight forwarder to submit the necessary customs declaration.
  9. Pay Applicable Duties and Taxes

    • Calculate and pay any required import duties and taxes.
  10. Track and Confirm Delivery

    • Monitor the shipment to ensure it reaches the destination safely.

Key Contacts

Importing goods into Poland involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

  1. Research Import Regulations

    • Familiarize yourself with Poland’s import laws and product-specific regulations.
  2. Obtain Necessary Licenses

    • Determine if your products require special import licenses or permits.
  3. Classify Your Goods

    • Identify the Harmonized System (HS) code for your products to understand tariffs and duties.
  4. Prepare Documentation

    • Gather required documents: commercial invoice, bill of lading, packing list, and certificate of origin.
  5. Choose a Customs Broker

    • Hire a licensed customs broker to assist with the import process.
  6. Comply with Labeling and Packaging Standards

    • Ensure products meet local labeling and packaging requirements.
  7. Submit Customs Declaration

    • File a customs declaration with the Polish Customs Service.
  8. Pay Duties and Taxes

    • Calculate and pay any applicable import duties and taxes.
  9. Arrange for Transportation and Delivery

    • Coordinate with a logistics provider to transport goods to their final destination.
  10. Track and Confirm Receipt

    • Monitor shipment progress and confirm delivery upon arrival.

Key Contacts

Incorporating a company in Poland involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

  1. Choose a Business Structure

    • Decide on the type of company, such as a Limited Liability Company (Sp. z o.o.) or Joint-Stock Company (S.A.).
  2. Reserve a Company Name

    • Ensure the company name is unique and not already registered in Poland.
  3. Prepare Incorporation Documents

    • Draft the Articles of Association and other necessary legal documents.
  4. Open a Bank Account

    • Deposit the required share capital in a Polish bank account.
  5. Register with the National Court Register (KRS)

    • Submit incorporation documents to the KRS. This includes the Articles of Association and proof of capital deposit.
  6. Obtain a REGON and NIP Number

    • Register for a statistical number (REGON) and tax identification number (NIP).
  7. Register for VAT

    • If applicable, register your company for Value Added Tax (VAT).
  8. Register with the Social Insurance Institution (ZUS)

    • Ensure compliance with employee benefits and contributions.

Costs

  • Registration Fee: Approximately PLN 600 for online registration
  • Notary Fees: Vary depending on the complexity and type of company

Key Contacts

  • Central Register and Information on Economic Activity (CEIDG)
  • National Court Register (KRS)

Setting up a manufacturing plant in Poland involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

  1. Conduct a Feasibility Study

    • Analyze market demand, location, and resource availability.
  2. Choose a Business Structure

    • Decide on the type of business entity, such as a Limited Liability Company (Sp. z o.o.).
  3. Register the Company

    • Register your business with the National Court Register (KRS).
  4. Secure Financing

    • Arrange funding through loans or investors.
  5. Select a Location

    • Choose an industrial area with access to infrastructure and resources.
  6. Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses

    • Apply for construction permits, environmental clearances, and industry-specific licenses.
  7. Design and Construct the Facility

    • Hire architects and contractors to design and build the plant.
  8. Purchase and Install Equipment

    • Acquire machinery and ensure it meets safety and operational standards.
  9. Hire and Train Employees

    • Recruit skilled workers and provide necessary training.
  10. Set Up Supply Chain and Distribution

    • Establish relationships with suppliers and distributors.

Key Contacts

Registering a trademark in Poland involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

  1. Conduct a Trademark Search

    • Ensure your trademark is unique by searching existing trademarks in the Polish Patent Office database.
  2. Prepare Your Application

    • Gather necessary details, including the trademark design and the list of goods/services it will cover.
  3. Submit the Application

    • File your application online or at the Polish Patent Office with the required forms and documents.
  4. Application Examination

    • The office will examine the application for compliance and potential conflicts with existing trademarks.
  5. Publication for Opposition

    • If approved, the trademark is published for a period during which others can oppose it.
  6. Receive Registration Certificate

    • If no oppositions are filed, you receive the official trademark registration certificate.

Costs

  • Application Fee: Approximately PLN 450 for one class of goods/services (additional fees may apply for each additional class)

Key Contacts

Resolving commercial disputes in Poland involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

  1. Consult Legal Counsel

    • Engage a lawyer experienced in Polish commercial law for guidance.
  2. Attempt Negotiation

    • Try to resolve the dispute amicably through direct negotiation with the other party.
  3. Mediation

    • Consider mediation with a neutral third party to facilitate a resolution. Mediation services are available through various legal organizations.
  4. Arbitration

    • Use arbitration for a binding resolution if both parties agree. Poland recognizes arbitration as an effective dispute resolution method.
  5. Litigation

    • If other methods fail, file a lawsuit in the Polish court system. Prepare for a formal legal process.
  6. Enforcement of Judgments

    • Ensure the decision is enforced through the relevant authorities.

Costs

  • Legal Fees: Vary depending on the complexity and length of the dispute.
  • Court Fees: Required for litigation and depend on the case specifics.

Key Contacts

When considering business in Poland, it’s important to understand various factors:

Social and Cultural Factors

  • Language: Polish is the official language; English is widely used in business.
  • Business Etiquette: Formality is valued. Punctuality and direct communication are important.

Political Factors

  • Government: Parliamentary Republic.
  • Stability: Generally stable, with a strong legal framework for business operations.

Economic Factors

  • Currency: Polish ZÅ‚oty (PLN).
  • Investment Opportunities: Key sectors include automotive, electronics, and technology.

Foreign Exchange

  • Exchange Rate: The ZÅ‚oty can fluctuate; monitoring currency markets is advisable.
  • Regulations: Poland is part of the EU, facilitating easier trade within the bloc.

Rule of Law

  • Legal System: Based on civil law; provides a robust framework for business operations.
  • Intellectual Property: Protections align with EU standards.

Infrastructure

  • Transport: Well-developed road and rail networks; expanding air and sea connections.
  • Utilities: Reliable, with ongoing improvements in energy and telecommunications.

Key Contacts

Our Members Include Leading Organizations in Poland

Ask our Experts on Doing Business in/with Poland

If you’re looking to do business or invest in Poland, we can provide expert guidance, market insights, and valuable connections to help you navigate the local landscape. Contact us today to discover how we can assist in making your venture a success.