Poland's entry into the European Union in May 2004 was a milestone in the country's political and economic transformation. The largest of the new accession countries; it is also the biggest recipient of EU funds, receiving € 67.2bn for 2007 - 2013. With economic growth at 5.4% in the first half of 2006, a young and well-educated workforce, and located at the crossroads between Easter and Western Europe, Poland offers Scottish companies a large potential market.

In 2007 the UK retained its position as Poland's fourth largest trading partner and Poland remained the UK's largest export market in Central and Eastern Europe. UK exports to Poland last year were in excess of EUR 3.4 billion.

On 18 April 2007, Poland and the Ukraine were selected to host the European Football Championships in 2012. Preparation for EURO 2012 is a huge long-term project for Poland which will generate numerous opportunities across a number of sectors. These include sport infrastructure, roads, railways, airports and hospitality.

Wider opportunities for Glasgow businesses include security, water, education & training, science & technology, engineering, power and agriculture.