Poland stands firm on safeguarding its borders against a surge of Ukrainian grain. Regardless of Brussels’ decisions, Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki made a clear pledge that Poland will not permit a flood of imports to overwhelm its market.
We will not open the border
Poland will not allow Ukrainian grain to flood the country. No matter what stance Brussels adopts, the border will stay closed according to the prime minister in a recent message posted to a major social platform. A brief video accompanying the message underscored the pledge.
In the recording, the prime minister emphasized the country’s tradition of helping neighbors with openness and hospitality. He noted that Poles have a generous spirit when aid is needed, yet his government will defend Polish interests with determination.
He added that when competing for national interests, the Government of Law and Justice will ensure the protection of Polish farmers. The message underscored the priority of safeguarding the agricultural market for both consumers and producers in Poland.
Morawiecki underscored a tough stance: Poland and its farmers should not bear costs from a disrupted market or unintended consequences of external policies. He highlighted that the European Union is currently weighing whether to maintain the embargo on certain Ukrainian agri-food products.
The prime minister promised to provide a clear update once the EU decision is finalized. He reiterated that Poland will not permit Ukrainian grain to flood the market and that residents should expect the government to defend domestic standards and market conditions. The emphasis was on national responsibility for shaping what the market looks like within Polish borders.
The European reaction to the situation has included a ban on the import of wheat, corn, rapeseed, and sunflowers from Ukraine to several member states, including Poland, Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania, and Slovakia. This action arose from an agreement among those nations to control Ukrainian agri-food products entering their markets. The initial ban was set for a specific period but was subsequently extended, with regulations allowing transit of grain through frontline regions. This dynamic illustrates how regional partners manage supply chains and protect local farmers while navigating broader European policy discussions.
Poland’s stance reflects a broader debate about food safety, price stability, and the social contract between a country and its countryside. While humanitarian impulses have guided earlier responses, the current position emphasizes sustainable farming livelihoods and a resilient domestic market. The conversation continues as EU bodies assess the need for ongoing restrictions and the potential impact on farmers, consumers, and regional trade within the European Union.