The import of used cars into Poland has seen a significant decline, marking January 2026 as the lowest figure in three years with a 16.4% reduction compared to the previous year.
According to IBRM Samar, Poland saw the registration of precisely 64,329 imported used passenger and delivery vehicles under 3.5 tons in the first month of the year, reflecting a 16.4% decrease from the previous year, marking the lowest January figure in three years. The decline is not a fleeting occurrence, as January marks the fourth consecutive month of falling imports, continuing a downward trend that has been uninterrupted since June 2025, excluding a nominal rise in September 2025 attributed to more working days.
The most considerable reduction in import volume was observed in passenger vehicles, which accounted for 89.5% of the total imports in January. This segment, while still dominant, has experienced its lowest share in 180 months, indicating a significant shift in the market. The changes suggest that the traditional model of mass importing used cars, predominant in previous years, is evolving.
This trend could have wide-ranging implications for the automotive market in Poland, as the import structure is changing fundamentally. The decline in used car imports could affect both domestic car dealerships and the availability of affordable vehicles for consumers. Additionally, as the market transitions, it may lead to a reevaluation of strategies among importers and car sellers in response to shifting consumer preferences and economic conditions.
