Polish Sunday Trade Ban Holds on July 19 as German Retailers Call for Liberalisation

Poland’s Sunday trading law continues to prohibit commercial activity on 19 July, making it a non‑trading Sunday. The next permitted Sunday for retail is 30 August. The legislation lists more than 30 exemptions, including fuel stations, postal services and certain cultural and tourism venues, and penalties range from 1,000 to 100,000 zloty, with possible liberty‑restriction measures for repeat violations. A recent SW Research poll for Wprost shows 43.9% of Poles favour scrapping the ban, while 41.3% oppose it.

In Germany, the retail sector is under pressure, with 63% of firms reporting a weakened business situation in the first half of 2026, according to a survey by the German Retail Association (HDE). Two‑thirds expect lower sales this year, citing weak demand, rising labour and energy costs, and increased bureaucracy. The DIHK president has even suggested a constitutional amendment to allow shops to open every Sunday, reflecting growing calls for liberalisation.

Both stories highlight a broader debate in Central Europe over Sunday trading restrictions, consumer access, and the financial strain on retailers.