Sikorski: End of globalization presents challenge for Poland

Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski observes that the period of globalization, governed by principles aimed at business efficiency, is concluding. Protectionism, tariffs, and the use of trade restrictions for political leverage or territorial gains are resurfacing, echoing historical patterns where empires relied on controlled resource flows.

Sikorski points to modern technological barriers, particularly for advanced semiconductors, as a new, potent form of economic dominance. This shift occurs as Poland's economy, having grown 130% since joining the EU in 2004, at an average rate three times faster than the EU average, is increasingly expanding internationally. Polish investments abroad total €40 billion, though 75% remain within the EU's single market.

However, maintaining such rapid, Europe-centric expansion is becoming difficult due to sluggish growth in many EU states. Poland must therefore look beyond the continent. Its entry into the global economic "extra league," marked by a US invitation to participate in G20 working groups, signifies this transition.

Poland's growing attractiveness as an investment destination for foreign capital, alongside Polish firms investing in potentially riskier but more profitable markets like India, the US, and Morocco, further illustrates this global ambition. The nation has also utilized €68 billion from EU cohesion funds for research and development projects since 2004, supporting these global aspirations. The challenge now is whether the state adequately supports Polish entrepreneurs venturing outside the secure confines of the European Union.