Oct 14, 2025 Warwick Robinson Poland, Trade, Export, Import, PAIH
When we think of European industrial powerhouses, Poland isn’t always the first name that comes to mind - yet maybe it should be far higher on the list than most business people assume. Over the past three decades, the country has transformed itself from a post-communist economy into one of Europe’s fastest-growing industrial and innovation hubs. It’s now among the world’s top 20 economies, supplying advanced components and technologies to many of the world’s leading automotive manufacturers.
Now, Polish industry is looking south. And at the centre of that outreach sits the Polish Investment and Trade Agency (PAIH) office in Sandton, Johannesburg - a small but ambitious outpost connecting Polish exporters with partners across Southern Africa.
Later this year, AutoForum will join a delegation of South African journalists and aftermarket representatives on a PAIH-organised educational visit to Poland. The goal is simple: to introduce Poland’s advanced manufacturing sector to the realities, opportunities, and partnerships available in our region. But before the visit, it’s worth understanding who the people behind this effort are - and why they believe the Poland–Africa connection could be a significant opportunity for our market.
A Bridge Between Two Markets
The Johannesburg office of PAIH is part of a global network of more than 60 foreign trade offices promoting Polish business around the world. Headed locally by Karabo Mahibila and Kasia Muzyk, the Sandton team plays a dual role - promoting Polish companies to potential local partners, and helping South African businesses access credible, vetted suppliers and investors from Poland.
Karabo, who previously worked with the European business community through the Dutch Chamber of Commerce, sees her work as both educational and catalytic.
“Poland isn’t the first trade partner that springs to mind in South Africa,” she says, “However, when you look at what’s coming out of Poland - from advanced manufacturing to engineering and innovation – they have solved many of similar challenges to those faced in our region. Our intention is to offer these opportunities some profile and facilitate the introductions to start building new relationships.”
For Kasia, who grew up in Pretoria to Polish parents, the role feels personal. With a background in business banking and investment management, she understands both the numbers and the people behind successful partnerships.
“It’s rewarding to bridge two economies I care deeply about,” she says. “Polish businesses bring world-class quality and the delivery of solid technology and innovation; South Africa offers scale, entrepreneurial drive, and access to the wider region. Together, it’s a partnership that we believe has true depth and potential.”
Complementary Strengths in the Automotive Sector
South Africa and Poland share surprising similarities in their automotive ambitions. South Africa’s automotive production facilities have a strong reputation for manufacturing and export capabilities under the Automotive Masterplan 2035. Poland, meanwhile, ranks among Europe’s top ten automotive component producers - a key player in electromobility and home to Europe’s largest EV battery plant in Wrocław.
“When these two strengths converge, the potential is remarkable,” notes Mahibila. “South Africa brings scale, established OEM presence, and a clear localisation agenda; Poland contributes advanced manufacturing, technology, and engineering expertise. Together they can build resilient regional value chains that go beyond trade into real industrial cooperation.”
Opportunities for South African Distributors
PAIH’s Johannesburg office provides a no-cost gateway for South African distributors, importers, and investors to connect with Polish suppliers. Their focus is on vetted, high-quality partners across key sectors - with automotive and aftermarket components in the focus area of their target industry list.
From braking systems, transmissions, and engine components to advanced batteries, filters, diagnostics, and workshop equipment, Polish companies are well-established suppliers to global OEMs such as Volkswagen, Stellantis, Mercedes-Benz, and Volvo. Many are now exploring how to adapt those strengths to the specific needs of emerging markets.
“Local distributors tell us they value reliability and responsiveness,” says Muzyk. “Polish companies have a similar business culture - practical, hands-on, and focused on long-term relationships. They don’t just ship boxes; they invest in understanding your business.”
A Two-Way Education
“We want Polish exporters to understand the sophistication and potential of South Africa’s aftermarket,” explains Mahibila. “It’s not just another export destination - it’s a hub for Sub-Saharan Africa. When they see the scale and capability here, it opens the door to genuine partnerships.”
The upcoming study tour that AutoForum will be participating in, is part of Poland’s Internationalisation of SMEs – Brand Hub initiative, will give South African delegates a first-hand look at Poland’s automotive sector - from component factories and R&D institutes to innovation centres and associations. But the learning runs both ways.
Why This Matters for Our Readers
For the South African aftermarket, this initiative isn’t just a diplomatic exercise - it’s a potential pipeline of new suppliers, technologies, and investment partners.
As AutoForum prepares to join the November study tour, we invite our readers - whether importers, distributors, or workshop equipment suppliers - to share what types of product lines or technologies you’d like us to explore on your behalf. Your feedback can help shape the conversations we have in Poland and ensure that the opportunities we identify are directly aligned with market needs here at home.
Looking Ahead
The vision shared by the PAIH team is clear: to build a sustainable, mutually beneficial trade relationship between Poland and Africa - one rooted in technology, trust, and shared growth.
“If you’re looking for quality, reliability, and partners who want to grow with you,” says Muzyk, “look to Poland. The track record speaks for itself - and we’re here in Johannesburg to make those introductions happen.”
To register your interest or share specific product categories you’d like us to explore during our visit, please email grant@AutoForum.co.za before 30 October 2025.
For more information on PAIH Johannesburg, visit paih.gov.pl or email zbh.rpa@paih.gov.pl.
Nov 10, 2025 0
Nov 07, 2025 0
Nov 06, 2025 0