21:43 7 August 2026
PIE: labor costs biggest barrier for companies
Labor costs, economic uncertainty and rising energy prices remain the biggest obstacles facing Polish businesses, according to the Polish Economic Institute’s Monthly Business Climate Index. Labor costs have ranked as the leading barrier since late 2023, cited by about two-thirds of companies, while uncertainty and energy costs also remain significant. Transport and logistics companies are particularly affected by labor costs, uncertainty and payment delays, while manufacturers report the greatest pressure from energy prices. Worker shortages are also becoming more acute, especially in construction.
Labor costs reached nearly 15% of companies’ operating expenses at the end of 2025, a record high. Demographic pressures and new wage regulations could keep employment-related costs elevated in the coming years.
