Brzoska: Poland establishes itself as a deregulation model for the EU

Poland’s Deregulation Model Gains Recognition in the EU

Brzoska – Rafał Brzoska, the CEO of InPost and one of Poland’s most influential business figures, has highlighted how the country’s economic reforms are positioning it as a deregulation benchmark for the European Union. During a session at the European Economic Congress, Brzoska emphasized the rapid progress made in streamlining business operations and simplifying administrative processes over the past year. His remarks underscore a broader trend of Poland actively reshaping its regulatory framework to attract investment and boost productivity.

In the last 14 months, nearly 200 targeted adjustments have been enacted to ease the burden on businesses and everyday citizens, according to Brzoska. These changes, he argued, mark the early stages of a comprehensive overhaul aimed at fostering economic growth. “The success of this initiative relies on mutual effort,” he stated, drawing a parallel between the roles of the private sector and policymakers. Brzoska pointed out that both the ruling government and the opposition have shown willingness to collaborate on these reforms, creating a cohesive approach to reducing red tape.

The deregulation process has seen a surge in momentum, with the team behind the reforms submitting over 500 proposals within the first 100 days of implementation. A significant portion of these ideas—around 350—has received formal endorsement from the government to proceed. As of now, approximately 200 of these measures are already in effect, creating a more flexible and efficient environment for economic activity. Brzoska identified several pivotal elements among the changes, including the presumption of innocence for taxpayers and the streamlined process for resolving tax disputes with the tax authorities.

These reforms are not limited to corporate interests; they are also beginning to reshape the lives of ordinary citizens. A notable example is the automation of the 800-plus family benefit, which will become operational by June. This shift eliminates the need for additional paperwork, allowing citizens to receive their benefits without extra steps. “It may seem straightforward, but this simplification has a profound impact on daily living,” Brzoska noted, underscoring the tangible benefits of the reforms.

“Simple, yet it makes life so much easier,” the businessman underlined.

Brzoska’s insights have drawn attention across Europe, with the Polish model of deregulation gaining traction in discussions among EU leaders. He has presented the core components of this initiative in Brussels on multiple occasions, accompanied by expert panels to illustrate its potential. During a recent visit to Gdańsk, he also engaged in a detailed conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron, who expressed interest in understanding how Poland’s approach could address similar challenges in France.

Brzoska highlighted that certain issues, such as bureaucratic delays and complex tax procedures, are particularly pressing in France. He argued that the Polish model offers a viable solution to these long-standing problems, which have hindered business efficiency in the region. “These specific examples are painful issues in France as well,” he remarked, emphasizing the relevance of Poland’s experience to other EU nations.

Despite the progress, Brzoska remains critical of the European Commission’s current level of bureaucracy. He believes that the most urgent task for the EU is to cut through excessive red tape, which stifles innovation and slows down decision-making. “The European Commission officials won’t deregulate on their own,” he said. “It will be the national leaders who must drive these changes forward.” This sentiment reflects his belief that political will is key to achieving broader deregulation across the bloc.

Brzoska also acknowledged his direct role in advocating for this approach. During his discussions with Macron, he urged the French leader to prioritize streamlining regulations at the EU level. “The European Commission needs external pressure to implement meaningful reforms,” he added, framing the challenge as one that requires leadership from member states.

Looking beyond policy, Brzoska addressed InPost’s ongoing expansion plans. The logistics company, which was founded in Poland, currently operates in nine countries, but its ambitions extend far beyond. By the end of next year, he outlined, InPost aims to provide its services across virtually the entire European Union. This includes both international shipments originating from Poland and deliveries arriving in the country from abroad.

The company’s growth strategy hinges on partnerships with local logistics providers, enabling it to scale efficiently across different markets. Brzoska acknowledged that such collaborations are essential to maintaining the quality and reliability of InPost’s operations. Additionally, he mentioned a high-profile agreement with FedEx as a critical factor in accelerating the company’s expansion. “This partnership will significantly enhance our ability to reach new markets,” he stated, highlighting the synergy between international alliances and domestic growth.

Brzoska’s vision for Poland’s deregulation model is not just about reducing administrative hurdles but also about setting a precedent for other EU nations. He argued that the country’s success demonstrates how proactive reforms can create a more competitive and dynamic economic environment. “Poland is showing that deregulation can be a catalyst for innovation,” he said, pointing to the increasing number of countries looking to emulate its approach.

The CEO’s comments align with a growing recognition that Poland’s reforms have been instrumental in improving the business climate. By removing barriers to entry and simplifying processes, the country has positioned itself as a hub for entrepreneurship and investment. This shift, Brzoska believes, is not only beneficial for Poland’s economy but also serves as a blueprint for the rest of the EU. “The lessons learned here can be applied elsewhere,” he concluded, stressing the importance of sharing best practices across borders.

As the Polish model continues to evolve, Brzoska remains optimistic about its long-term impact. He envisions a future where deregulation is not just a policy trend but a transformative force for economic stability and growth. With both domestic and international support, Poland’s efforts could pave the way for a more streamlined and responsive EU regulatory landscape.