Poland's new reprographic fee to raise up to 200 million zł for artists

Poland will introduce a revised reprographic fee – a levy on electronic devices such as smartphones and laptops that compensates authors for private copying of their works. The amendment, signed by Culture Minister Marta Cienkowska, sets the charge at 1 % of the net price of the device and expands the catalogue of covered products. Government estimates place annual revenue between 150 million and 200 million zł, which will be allocated to collective‑management organisations such as ZAIKS and ZPAV for distribution to musicians, writers and other creators.

The fee, originally introduced in 1994 to meet EU requirements, has been updated only twice before; the latest change follows a long‑standing debate over its impact on device prices and cultural funding. Law‑and‑order party PiS politicians have condemned the measure as a hidden tax that will raise consumer costs, while some artists, like Marcin Miller of the band Boys, have welcomed it as fair compensation. Opponent Norbert Dudziuk (Norbi) dismissed it as unnecessary extra money for already wealthy performers. The controversy reflects broader tensions between the governing coalition and cultural figures over copyright policy.

The fee will take effect six months after publication, meaning Polish consumers will see a modest price increase on new electronics, while the cultural sector anticipates a significant new funding stream.