Poland’s clinical research sector has experienced notable expansion in recent years, according to new market analysis; however, this success is now at risk. While the findings underscore the country’s growing role as a regional hub for medical innovation and patient access to cutting-edge therapies, modernisation is now needed to sustain progress.
The new report, ‘Commercial Clinical Trials in Poland: Market Analysis until 2024’, shows that between 2020 and 2022, Poland advanced from eleventh to ninth place globally in clinical trial activity, reflecting a period of accelerated integration into the international research landscape. However, that momentum has since plateaued, prompting questions over the sector’s long-term competitiveness and the structural reforms needed to sustain growth.
“These results should serve as a warning sign for domestic stakeholders, who must act now to prevent a decline in market share, a situation affecting all neighbouring countries,” emphasises Dr Vladimir Misik, author of the report and expert at LongTaal.
Poland’s Rapid Growth
A report was prepared by the Association of Innovative Pharmaceutical Employers (INFARMA), the Employers’ Association of Clinical Research Organisations (POLCRO), and the Association for Good Clinical Practice in Poland (GCPp), it confirms that Poland significantly increased its share of the global clinical trials market between 2020 and 2022.
During this period, Poland emerged as the sixth-largest clinical trials market in Europe, with growth outpacing that of most other European countries.
The value of commercial clinical trials in Poland now exceeds €2 billion, representing a substantial share of all domestic research and development (R&D) expenditure. For comparison, in 2020, the market was valued at approximately €1.27 billion, demonstrating remarkable expansion within just a few years.
In 2024, commercial clinical trials in Poland provided more than 26,800 patients with access to innovative therapies, demonstrating the sector’s critical role in advancing healthcare. The innovative biopharmaceutical clinical trials industry now supports 9,400 jobs nationwide, reinforcing both the labour market and Poland’s growing research infrastructure.
Poland’s integration into the global research system is evident, with 47% of active research centres collaborating with major international sponsors, ensuring access to best practices and cutting-edge technologies.
Stagnation threatens
The report’s authors caution that the last two years have brought a period of stagnation for Poland’s clinical trials sector.
The socio-economic impact of this slowdown during 2022-2024 is considerable: more than 600 research and development jobs failed to materialise, nearly €227 million in economic R&D investment was lost, and over 3,000 patients missed the opportunity to access the latest experimental therapies provided by commercial clinical trials.
Without decisive institutional action, Poland risks losing its hard-earned competitive edge in the global clinical research market.
The authors say only bold, strategic measures aimed at increasing Poland’s appeal for pharmaceutical and biotech companies, the main sponsors of clinical trials, can prevent a drop in market share and its serious socio-economic consequences.
“Only immediate and coordinated efforts by all stakeholders, including consultation with organisations involved in clinical research, can save us from repeating Germany’s fate, where between 2020 and 2024, market share fell by more than 15%,” warns Agnieszka Skoczylas, president of the Polish Association of Employers Conducting Clinical Research on Commission (POLCRO).
Incentives to attract investment
Experts note that, to safeguard Poland’s global standing in the clinical trials sector, a comprehensive national strategy for clinical research is urgently required.
Such a strategy, they say, should focus on streamlining the review and registration procedures, making these processes more efficient and transparent for all stakeholders. Full implementation of electronic documentation and digital patient consent will also be needed to modernise clinical practices and improve data security.
In addition, introducing both financial and non-financial incentives for trial sponsors is seen as essential to attracting new investments. Active promotion of Poland as a competitive and appealing destination for clinical research on the international stage would further enhance its reputation and encourage greater participation from global companies.
Experts also underline the importance of supporting early-phase studies, which can drive innovation and ensure that Poland remains at the forefront of medical advancements within Europe and beyond.
“Introducing a strategy to strengthen the clinical trials market will also allow Poland to actively contribute to restoring leadership in clinical research within the EU. Our country could attract more investment into research and manufacturing infrastructure, while positioning clinical research as a pillar of healthcare innovation,” adds Wiktor Janicki, president of INFARMA.
(VA, BM)