In 2023, Poland exported EUR 68.2 million worth of Christmas decorations, placing third in Europe and fifth globally, according to Akcenta, a financial services company that specializes in trade analysis.
As global demand for high-quality handmade products rises, Poland’s reputation as a producer of well-made, intricate Christmas ornaments is poised for further growth.
This shift benefits artisans and strengthens Poland’s position in the global holiday decoration market.
The ornaments, often hand-painted and meticulously crafted, have earned a reputation as luxury items, contrasting with mass-produced Chinese decorations which dominate the global market.
While China remains the top exporter, it faced a 42-percent drop in exports in 2023.
In comparison, Poland weathered the downturn better, with only a 7-percent decline.
Globally, the value of Christmas ornament exports fell by 39 percent, from EUR 10.3 billion in 2022 to EUR 6.38 billion in 2023.
Germany is the largest market for Polish ornaments, accounting for EUR 15.6 million of exports last year. The United States follows with EUR 14.8 million, while France takes third place at EUR 4.3 million.
Polish decorations also find homes in Austria, Slovakia, Russia and Australia.
Poland's domestic customers are increasingly opting for local, artisan-made decorations over imported decorations, particularly those from China.
While imports of holiday ornaments to Poland totaled EUR 46.7 million in 2023, exports exceeded them by EUR 21.5 million. This marks a growing preference for "Made in Poland" products, aligning with a global shift toward higher-quality items.
China remains Poland’s primary source of imported holiday decorations, but its share is shrinking. Imports from China dropped by 17 percent in 2023, reflecting a broader decline in demand for what is perceived as lower-quality items.
Imports from Germany and the Netherlands, valued at EUR 4.6 million and EUR 1.7 million respectively, make up a smaller share of the Polish market.
Radosław Jarema, director of Akcenta’s Polish division, emphasized the strategic advantage of Poland's export balance, which "demonstrates the strong global appeal of Polish premium products," he said.
"The declining interest in Chinese ornaments in Poland signals growing consumer awareness and an opportunity to strengthen the ‘Made in Poland’ brand internationally,” he added.
Poland’s success in the holiday ornament market is part of a broader trend of consumers valuing quality over quantity, according to Jarema.
He likened Polish ornaments to other national specialties, such as French cheeses or Swiss watches, highlighting their unique appeal even in challenging economic times.
(rt/gs)
Source: PAP, radiozet.pl, zoom-bsc.pl, se.pl