Global customs policy turbulence and trade restrictions a growth opportunity for European companies?
Global customs policy turbulence and trade restrictions a growth opportunity for Polish companies?.
The year 2025 brings further changes to the global economy - from trade tensions to new strategies in supply chains. The changing realities create both challenges and unique opportunities for companies in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE).
How do you find yourself in this dynamic situation and why is it important to diversify your markets right now?
Turbulence in world trade
Recent years have seen growing tensions between the world's largest economies, particularly between the US and China. The wave of new tariffs, trade restrictions and regulatory barriers clearly shows that globalisation as we know it is undergoing a transformation.
What is changing?
- Import costs are rising - particularly from Asia.
- Companies are looking for shorter, more predictable supply chains.
- Geopolitical risks is beginning to have a greater impact on investment decisions.
Example:
Relocation of production from Asia to CEE
As a result of rising tariffs, the electronic components manufacturer decided to relocate assembly from China to Poland and Romania, reducing delivery times from several weeks to a few days and avoiding additional costs.
Poland and CEE - a new alternative
In this changing economic landscape Central and Eastern Europe is gaining importance as an attractive trade and production partner.
Why?
- Geographical location - proximity to Western European markets and good logistical accessibility.
- High quality production - Polish companies offer products of competitive quality at reasonable costs.
- Flexibility and rapid adaptation - SMEs in the CEE region are known for their ability to adapt to changing market conditions.
Example:
Poland as an export hub to the UK after Brexit
A Polish food manufacturer has successfully entered the UK market, taking advantage of fast ferry crossings and an efficient customs and logistics service. This gave it an advantage over competitors from Southern Europe.
Why diversify markets now?
- Risk reduction - basing an export business on just one market (e.g. the USA) these days carries greater risks.
- Increased sales opportunities - entering new markets, e.g. the UK, the Nordic countries, Ireland, allows growth even in the face of global uncertainty.
- Building the company's resilience - Diversification is an investment in long-term stability.
Example:
Entering the Irish market
Rather than risk entering the US market straight away, the Polish cosmetics company decided to start selling in Ireland - a smaller but stable and English-speaking market.
How does J. Dauman Logistics support companies in building resilience?
At J. Dauman Logistics, we have a keen understanding of today's global trade challenges. We support companies that want to:
- export safely to the UK,
- prepare for changing trade conditions with the US,
- find new lines of expansion and logistical support throughout the process.
Example:
Nearshoring - an opportunity for Polish suppliers
In an effort to reduce lead times and the risk of delays, the US apparel manufacturer moved some production from Asia to Poland and Slovakia. This enabled it to respond more quickly to changing trends and increase delivery flexibility.
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🔸 Thinking about expansion? Do you want to know where your company has the greatest potential?
🔸 Looking for a partner to help you safely navigate the changing realities of trading?
👉 Contact us - we can advise on the best solution for your business.
