Domański, participating in the annual meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank, addressed questions about defense spending in the context of limited return on investment. He explained that Poland is working intensively on reducing the budget deficit, presenting additional revenue resources in the 2026 budget and developing new financial tools. He also noted that Poland actively encourages other European countries to increase defense spending, which will benefit the entire region.
The minister expressed satisfaction with Poland obtaining a loan of EUR 43 billion from the EU SAFE program, which will be allocated to the development of Polish defense and the European arms sector. In the context of the planned income tax on banks, which is intended to help reduce the deficit, Domański reassured that the Polish banking sector was in good condition. The tax, initially set at 30 percent, is to gradually decrease to 23 percent. in 2028
The minister emphasized that Polish banks have large capital and benefit from high real interest rates. He pointed out that other European countries are also introducing similar solutions, and additional financing is necessary to maintain strong public finances and implement defense spending. Domański noted that the banking sector achieved record profits last year, which allows the introduction of a new tax without a threat to its stability.
Andrzej Domański on the Polish economy
Speaking of Poland's economy, Domański emphasized its good condition, pointing to strong consumer spending, wage growth and the positive results of the Warsaw Stock Exchange. He expressed optimism regarding the projected GDP growth of 3.5%. next year, a further decline in inflation and maintaining low unemployment. He also referred to the tariffs imposed by the Donald Trump administration, which negatively affect the automotive sector, although Poland feels their effects to a lesser extent than some neighboring countries.
The minister emphasized that the government's priority is to accelerate investments, both public and private. He announced the implementation of new tools to stimulate private investment, emphasizing that one cannot rely solely on the state budget. Domański expressed his belief that Poland was doing well and was on the right track to further development.
