Poland Lags on EU Right‑to‑Repair Directive as Consumers Face Delays

The European Union’s Right‑to‑Repair directive entered into force on 31 July 2026, obliging manufacturers to make appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers, refrigerators, vacuum cleaners, phones and electronic displays easier to service, to provide spare parts and technical information, and to design products for repair. The EU estimates the rule could cut e‑waste, save millions of tonnes of resources and generate about €4.8 billion a year for the European economy.

In Poland, the national law required to transpose the directive has not been adopted. Legal expert Michał Jeleń warned that, “it is a revolution in consumer rights, but here it remains only on paper,” and cautioned that without implementing legislation the new rights are unlikely to be enforceable and could expose the country to penalties. Consumers therefore cannot yet demand repairs or claim compensation, despite the EU‑wide legal framework.

The directive also introduces a European repair platform slated for launch in 2027 and extends the seller’s liability period by at least 12 months after a repair. Polish authorities are expected to draft the necessary legislation, but until then the Right‑to‑Repair remains theoretical for Polish shoppers.