EU report predicts slower growth for Poland in 2005 than previously thought

According to a report by the European Commission which is to be published on April 4, the forecasted growth of the Polish economy will be lowered from 4.9% to 4%. According to EU analysts Poland is hurt by disadvantageous conditions for entrepreneurship, such as inefficient courts, the administration's improper approach to business, an unregulated land-ownership structure and delays in the modernization of road infrastructure. "Poland has far more potential for attracting foreign investments," claim European Commission specialists. Analysts believe that the problems are the result of the delayed execution of reforms, a worse than anticipated economic situation of Poland's neighbors and a strong domestic currency. Furthermore, internal consumption will grow at a slow rate at the beginning of the year, while investments of enterprises are expected in the second half of the year. (Rzeczpospolita, pp. A1, B1) M.M.