Local Content Can Be a Good Impulse for Business

The recent definition of "local content" by Poland's Ministry of State Assets is a welcome and necessary step towards bolstering our national economy. As Piotr Soroczyński, chief economist at the National Chamber of Commerce, rightly points out, "Of course, it's a good idea, one would even want to say – finally." This sentiment reflects a growing recognition that prioritizing domestic businesses is not only beneficial but essential for sustainable economic growth.

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Of course, it's a good idea, one would even want to say – finally.

Supporting our own companies – those that operate within Poland, pay taxes here, and employ our citizens – should be a cornerstone of our economic policy. By increasing the pool of orders directed towards these firms, we create a virtuous cycle of investment and job creation. The fact that this initiative is finally gaining traction and public attention is a significant achievement in itself. It signals a shift towards a more pragmatic and nationally-minded economic strategy, moving away from a purely abstract adherence to market principles towards a more grounded approach that values local contribution.

Some may question whether favoring local suppliers contradicts the principles of the EU's single market. However, as Soroczyński observes, Poland is merely adopting practices already prevalent in many established EU member states. "We are looking at what our colleagues in the old EU countries are doing, how they prefer their suppliers, and we are simply starting to do the same," he notes. This is not protectionism in its negative sense, but rather a strategic alignment with common European economic practices aimed at strengthening national industries within the broader European framework.

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We can increase the pool of orders addressed to domestic companies, those operating here in the market, paying taxes here, employing people here.

From the perspective of Rzeczpospolita, this move towards "local content" is a pragmatic recognition of the need to foster a robust domestic business environment. It acknowledges that a strong national economy benefits not only the businesses themselves but also the state through increased tax revenues and employment. This policy is about smart, strategic support for Polish enterprises, ensuring they have a competitive edge and contribute more significantly to our national prosperity. It is about building a stronger, more self-reliant Polish economy within the European Union.

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We are looking at what our colleagues in the old EU countries are doing, how they prefer their suppliers, and we are simply starting to do the same.