By 
President of the United States, Donald J. Trump, has announced a significant increase in tariffs on goods worldwide. These tariffs are expected to apply to most countries and could range from 10% to as much as 60%, depending on the nation involved.
This announcement has shocked the markets, with stock exchanges in Europe and Asia experiencing declines. Investors are now concerned about rising inflation and a potential slowdown in global trade.
The impact of this decision will also be felt in Poland. The export industries—including automotive, machinery manufacturing, electronics, and steel—will be particularly affected.
Notably, Polish exports to Germany, Poland’s leading trading partner, often proceed to the US market.
Targeting the German industry indirectly harms Polish companies that are part of its supply chains. Prime Minister Donald Tusk has estimated that this situation could affect Poland’s economy by up to 0.4% of GDP, translating to over 10 billion zlotys potentially lost by companies, employees, and the state budget.
These figures represent just the immediate effects of the tariff increase. In the long term, we can expect higher prices for imported goods, a decline in investment, and slower economic growth.
The European Union is considering retaliatory measures, which could lead to another trade war.
Historically, such conflicts have no winners; protectionism tends to weaken economies rather than strengthen them. It results in higher costs, reduced innovation, and increased economic isolation.
As a medium-sized country without a market comparable to that of the US or China, Poland should prioritize the defense of free trade. Instead of responding to tariffs with our own, it would be more beneficial to focus on enhancing the resilience of the Polish economy by simplifying regulations, lowering taxes, and supporting investment and innovation.
Economic openness has been a cornerstone of Poland’s strength for years, and Poland must not sacrifice it for short-term emotional responses.
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