Export of Grain: Where Does Poland Sell Its Grain?

Which countries are the main recipients of Polish cereals and what cereals does Poland export most often?

Poland has long maintained its position as one of the largest grain exporters in Europe. According to data from the Central Statistical Office (GUS), in recent years, Poland has exported an average of 6 to 8 million tons of grain annually, which constitutes a significant share of Poland's total grain production, exceeding 30 million tons in favorable years. In the export structure, wheat plays a dominant role, with exports reaching up to 4 million tons in record years. Poland also exports corn, rye, barley, and triticale, with their combined share in exports accounting for about 40 percent.

The primary recipients of Polish grain are European Union countries. Within the export structure, Germany holds the largest share, importing Polish grain for food and feed industries. In 2022, Germany imported approximately 1.2 million tons of Polish grain, representing about 20 percent of total exports. Other important markets include the Netherlands, Spain, and Italy, where Polish grain is used in the production of pasta, bread, and animal feed. Exports to the Netherlands in 2022 amounted to about 700,000 tons, while Spain received nearly 800,000 tons of Polish grain.

Outside the European Union, Polish grain is also shipped to North Africa. Algeria, Morocco, and Egypt are among the largest importers of wheat and barley, which are primarily used in the food industry. In 2021, Poland exported around 600,000 tons of wheat to Algeria, and over 500,000 tons to Egypt. The African market, despite higher transportation costs, is becoming an increasingly important export destination due to growing demand for food and limited agricultural production capacity in the region.

The Middle East is another significant export destination for Polish grain. Saudi Arabia and Turkey are the main importers of wheat and corn from Poland, which are used in the feed industry. In 2022, exports to Saudi Arabia amounted to about 400,000 tons, while Turkey received nearly 300,000 tons. Exports to Middle Eastern countries are supported by favorable logistics conditions, such as well-developed port infrastructure in Gdańsk and Gdynia.

Poland also exports considerable quantities of grain to Asia. China and India are key recipients of Polish grain in this region. In 2021, Poland exported approximately 200,000 tons of corn to China, addressing increasing feed demand in the country. Exports to India reached about 150,000 tons of wheat and barley, used in the food industry. Growth in exports to Asia is linked to increasing populations and the demands of the agri-food sector in the region.

In the structure of Polish grain exports, rye plays a significant role, particularly in Scandinavian countries and Germany. In 2022, rye exports amounted to approximately 900,000 tons, representing a substantial share of Poland's total grain exports. Rye is primarily used in the bakery industry and for alcohol production. Poland is one of the largest producers and exporters of rye globally, providing a competitive advantage in international markets.

Barley is another important export product from Poland. In 2021, barley exports totaled approximately 700,000 tons, with a significant portion shipped to European Union countries, including Belgium, France, and Germany. Barley is utilized in both the food industry and as a feed ingredient. Exports of barley to Africa and Asia are also growing dynamically, driven by increasing demand for agricultural raw materials in these regions.

Exports of corn from Poland also play a crucial role in the country's foreign trade structure. In 2022, Poland exported approximately 1 million tons of corn, with the majority destined for European Union countries, such as Germany, the Netherlands, and Spain. Corn is mainly used in the feed industry, but also in the food and energy industries. Growth in Polish corn exports is associated with the increasing competitiveness of the Polish agricultural sector in international markets.

In recent years, the export of organic grain from Poland has gained importance. In 2022, organic grain exports reached approximately 100,000 tons, with most shipments destined for Western European countries, such as Germany, Sweden, and Austria. Organic grain is gaining popularity in international markets due to rising ecological awareness among consumers and increased demand for high-quality products.

Transport infrastructure plays a key role in Poland's grain exports. Major ports, such as Gdańsk, Gdynia, Szczecin, and Świnoujście, handle a significant portion of grain exports. In 2022, over 5 million tons of grain were exported through Polish ports, accounting for about 70 percent of total exports. A well-developed railway and road network ensures efficient delivery of grain to ports and to neighboring countries, such as the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Lithuania.