Poland: A Wave of Carrier Protests is Approaching

Large-Scale Strikes in the Transport Sector

In March, Polish carriers plan mass protests and blockades of key border crossings. Their main demands include government support, a reduction in bureaucratic barriers, and a review of working conditions in the face of economic instability.

Economic Crisis Intensifies the Situation

According to the International Road Transport Union (IRU), the European economy is in a state of stagnation. Production in key industries has declined by 10%, and high inflation forces central banks to raise interest rates, making business financing more difficult.

Additionally, rising energy prices and upcoming ETS fees for CO2 emissions add further financial strain on carriers. The IRU’s forecast for 2024 remains pessimistic: road freight transport volumes in the EU are expected to reach approximately 1.9 trillion tkm, matching the level of 2023 when the market declined by 3%. Polish companies, which account for 20% of the European road transport market, are particularly vulnerable to such fluctuations.

Growing Competition and Regulatory Challenges

Polish carriers face increasing competition from transport companies within the EU. Spanish carriers are strengthening their positions, pushing out French and German competitors, while pressure from Central and Eastern European companies continues to grow in Poland. The SENT system has limited the influence of Ukrainian carriers, yet the increasing complexity of regulations continues to cause dissatisfaction among Polish businesses.

Despite attempts to implement new solutions, the transport sector faces ongoing challenges. The IRU’s cautious forecasts indicate a decline in labor demand, rising unemployment, and increasing pressure from U.S. trade tariffs. It is expected that in 2025, road freight transport volumes will remain at the previous year’s level, signaling continued economic difficulties.

Polish carriers demand immediate government intervention and support. Increased tax burdens, rising logistics costs, and regulatory constraints make business operations increasingly challenging. In the coming months, it will become clear whether the authorities can find a compromise to prevent large-scale protests or if the transport industry will face even greater difficulties.