Poland is the fifth largest global exporter and importer of fireworks

Poland is the world's fifth largest exporter and importer of fireworks; The domestic pyrotechnics industry generates a turnover of approximately PLN 700 million each year, the Association of Pyrotechnics Importers and Distributors told PAP. Over the last decade, imports have increased by more than half.

The association reported that The pyrotechnic industry generates a turnover of approximately PLN 700 million each year – the estimated total annual net revenue of entities in the pyrotechnic industry importing and distributing fireworks is approximately PLN 769 million.

The organization emphasized that Poland plays an important role in the global pyrotechnics industry, both as an importer and exporter of fireworks. In 2023, imports to Poland reached approx PLN 148 million, and exports approximately PLN 74 million. In both categories, Poland ranked 5th in the world – only China, the Netherlands, Germany and Spain export more. Exporters sell products mainly to European countries, in particular to France, Germany and Italy. Comparing the value of Polish exports from 2023 to 2021, it increased by over 30%.

The association noted that the last decade had also shown dynamic increase in imports – by over 50%, “which proves continued consumer demand, despite the intensifying regulatory debate.” The largest supplier of pyrotechnic products to Poland is China – products from this country account for over 90%. import values.

“A significant part of the pyrotechnics industry in Poland are companies from the SME sector, with importers and wholesalers operating on a larger, often international scale. It is worth mentioning that fireworks sellers are often local family businesses,” the Association emphasized.

When asked about the main problems of the industry, the association indicated that the most serious obstacle is the growing legal uncertainty. “The industry operates in a highly regulated sector, requiring long-term planning and high capital expenditure. When there is a risk of a sudden ban or decentralization of regulations, entrepreneurs suspend investments, which weakens the security of the supply chain and market stability,” it said.

“An additional challenge is the risk of developing the gray zone, which – as the experience of other countries shows – increases in direct proportion to the scale and restrictiveness of the bans,” it added.

According to last year's KPMG report on the pyrotechnics industry, 9.3 million Poles buy fireworks every year.

The Association of Pyrotechnics Importers and Distributors was founded in 1993. It brings together the largest Polish importers and distributors of pyrotechnic products. The main tasks of the Association include representing the industry, participating in monitoring and giving opinions on legislative initiatives, promoting the safe use of pyrotechnic products and conducting educational activities regarding the fireworks market in Poland.

Filip Ostrowski (PAP)

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