- The U.S. is imposing new tariffs on the EU and Asia, and China is responding with 54% tariffs on goods from the U.S.
- Trade barriers are rising, increasing uncertainty in global supply chains.
- Poland’s agricultural sector may face price pressures and the risk of disruptions in raw material supplies.
- Market diversification, export flexibility, and systemic support will be key.
The new tariffs announced by the Donald Trump administration on goods from Europe and Asia are one of the strongest trade signals in recent years. The decision immediately triggered a flood of political and economic reactions—the European Union has announced retaliatory measures, and China has decided to impose tariffs of as much as 54% on all goods from the U.S. The situation also affects the Polish agri-food industry, which must prepare for a period of increased uncertainty.
The U.S. has imposed a 10% tariff on all goods imported into the country and an additional 20% on products from the European Union. For industries reliant on international supply chains, this poses a real threat to contract predictability, the availability of raw materials, and price stability.
“This is a serious warning sign for the entire agri-food sector,” says Marcin Stradowski, a member of the management board of Foodcom S.A. “On the one hand, niches may emerge if the U.S. restricts imports from China. But on the other hand, the European Union is already in the crosshairs. Polish exporters of milk, meat, or processed products may face new restrictions, even if they do not trade directly with the Americans.”
The changes may also result in an influx of cheaper raw materials and semi-finished products, which will hurt local producers’ profit margins. Additionally, the risk of supply disruptions for key ingredients used in the agri-food industry—such as enzymes, feed additives, and packaging—is increasing.
Changing Markets and Growing Restrictions
“The rise in trade barriers between the world’s largest economies could lead to a reshuffling of supply chains. Asian producers subject to the new tariffs will seek alternative markets, including in Europe. This could result in an influx of cheaper raw materials and semi-finished products, which will put price pressure on European food producers,” comments Marcin Stradowski of Foodcom S.A.
At the same time, the risk of disruptions in the availability of key ingredients used in agri-food production—such as enzymes, feed additives, and packaging materials—is growing. In the face of rising trade tensions and logistical uncertainty, companies are planning their purchases with increasing caution, which may affect supply continuity and drive up operating costs.
What should the Polish agri-food sector do?
In the current situation, companies in the agri-food sector should focus on mitigating risks in supply chains, adjusting terms of cooperation with business partners, and seeking new markets—especially outside the European Union. A flexible approach to trade policy and a rapid response to changes in the regulatory and pricing environment will also become increasingly important.
“This is a moment when those who are well-versed in international trade and can adapt quickly will come out ahead,” adds Stradowski. “Cost stability and export flexibility will be a competitive advantage in the coming months.”
Systemic Support Is Needed
In this volatile situation, the agribusiness sector also needs swift protective measures—both at the national and EU levels. The coming months may test the adaptability of the entire European agricultural sector. Those who have access to market information and can act quickly may even come out ahead. For the rest, survival in an increasingly volatile trade environment will be at stake.
