Contents
What?
Poles are increasingly willing to shop online from China. This is due to the growing popularity of Chinese shopping platforms like AliExpress and GearBest , which offer attractive prices and a wide range of products. In this article, we'll discuss why shopping from China is becoming so common in Poland.
Why?
Shopping from China is becoming increasingly popular thanks to low prices, a wide selection, and the rapid development of logistics services. This allows Poles to purchase products that would be much more expensive in Poland. Furthermore, Chinese sellers offer money-back guarantees, which builds consumer confidence in shopping abroad.
For whom?
This article is aimed at Polish consumers, who are increasingly turning to products from China, as well as at online retailers who want to understand the impact of this trend on the e-commerce market. It will also be helpful for market analysts and specialists in international trade and logistics.
Background to the topic
Online shopping from China is a trend gaining momentum worldwide. In Poland, Chinese platforms like AliExpress are becoming some of the most popular shopping sources, offering products at significantly lower prices than those available in the domestic market. In this article, we'll examine how this phenomenon is impacting the Polish e-commerce market and what challenges and benefits it brings.
Online shopping has become an integral part of Polish life. The number of parcels imported into Poland grows year by year, and 2025 was a record year, with as many as 100 million parcels from China .
Shopping from China has become popular worldwide, and Poland is no exception. More and more Poles are seeking cheaper alternatives to domestic online stores, opting to shop on Chinese platforms like AliExpress , GearBest , Banggood , and many others.
What is driving the increase in the number of parcels from China?
China is the world's largest producer and exporter. Thanks to the development of the internet, e-commerce from China is becoming increasingly accessible to Poles. Why is shopping from China gaining popularity?
1. Low product prices
One of the main reasons Poles are increasingly willing to buy products from China is the price. Products that would cost significantly more in Poland are available in Chinese stores for a fraction of that price. For example:
- Smartphones and electronics: Chinese smartphones and electronic accessories are often 30-40% cheaper than those offered in Polish online stores. The popularity of brands like Xiaomi and Huawei is growing year by year.
- Clothing and footwear: Clothing and footwear offered by Chinese manufacturers are attractively priced, which attracts consumers looking for fashionable yet affordable clothing.
- Home accessories: Interior design products, furniture, household appliances and other accessories are also very popular among Polish consumers who are looking for affordable solutions for their homes.
It's worth noting that these low prices are due to lower production costs in China , including lower labor costs. Chinese manufacturers can afford to offer products at prices that would be unattainable in Poland.
2. Wide range of products
China is a country that offers an incredibly wide range of products. Whether you're looking for the latest tech gadget, clothing, home accessories, or children's toys, Chinese platforms offer literally everything. Among the most frequently purchased products are:
- Electronics: Computer equipment, headphones, smartwatches, Bluetooth speakers, and computer and phone accessories. These products are often cheaper than in Poland and available from well-known Chinese brands.
- Fashion: Clothing, footwear, accessories that are fashionable, but also available at prices often 50-70% lower than in Polish online stores.
- Home accessories: Decorative items, furniture, kitchen accessories and many others that would be much more expensive in Polish stores.
This wide range of products means that Chinese online stores are attracting a growing number of consumers in Poland . Many people choose to shop there because they not only offer low prices but also a wide selection of products that are difficult to find in the domestic market.
3. Logistical facilities – rapid development of courier services
Increasingly improved logistics infrastructure allows for faster parcel delivery from China. Thanks to partnerships with international courier companies such as DHL , FedEx , and local carriers, parcels from China are reaching Poland faster than they did just a few years ago. It's worth noting that:
- Standard delivery time: Usually takes 7 to 21 business days, depending on the shipping method chosen.
- Premium services: Thanks to express shipping options, parcels can reach Poland in as little as 5 business days.
It's worth noting that a growing number of Chinese companies are investing in the development of parcel tracking systems, which makes it easier for Poles to monitor the status of their orders. These improvements make the purchasing process even more convenient.
4. Trust in Chinese sellers
Over the past few years, Poles have increasingly chosen to shop at Chinese online stores. This increased trust in Chinese sellers stems primarily from platforms like AliExpress offering money-back guarantees , giving consumers the confidence to get their money back if there are any issues with their order. Furthermore, Chinese sellers provide information about their products, which also builds a positive impression.
What do Poles from China buy?
Purchases from China encompass a wide range of products. While there's no single dominant product range, certain categories are particularly popular. The vast majority of Poles order electronics and accessories, as well as clothing and toys.
Most frequently purchased products from China in 2025
| Category | Products | Platforms |
|---|---|---|
| Electronics | Smartphones, headphones, speakers | AliExpress, GearBest |
| Clothing and footwear | Shoes, clothes, fashion accessories | AliExpress, Shein |
| Toys and children's items | Educational toys, children's items | AliExpress, JD |
Challenges of Purchasing from China
Despite the enormous benefits, shopping from China also comes with some challenges worth noting. While the waiting time for a package from China has decreased in recent years, it can still take several to a dozen business days, which some consumers consider too long.
Customs duties and taxes
While products from China are attractively priced, it's worth remembering that they may be subject to additional customs and tax fees. Therefore, consumers should be aware that low prices on platforms like AliExpress may be higher once taxes and duties are added.
Risk related to product quality
Although many Chinese online stores offer high-quality products, the risk of purchasing low-quality goods still exists . Before making a purchase, it's worth checking reviews from other users and seller ratings.
What does this mean for the Polish e-commerce market?
The increase in parcels from China is having a significant impact on the Polish e-commerce market. Not only consumers but also Polish sellers are increasingly using Chinese suppliers, which increases market competitiveness.
The Chinese presence in the Polish e-commerce market means that local sellers must also adapt their offers to consumer needs, offering attractive prices and faster delivery options.
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What's worth knowing?
Online shopping from China is a trend that won't be disappearing anytime soon. Poles have gained access to products at attractive prices and a wide selection, making shopping in Chinese online stores very popular. Although these purchases carry certain risks, their number is growing, and the future of this market in Poland looks promising.
Marcin Stadnik
e-commerce advisor
The author is a manager with extensive experience in e-commerce, sales strategy, and content marketing. He is a digital practitioner and consultant with over 15 years of experience in e-commerce projects, sales strategy, and online business development, as well as 25 years of experience in broadly defined distribution (offline and online). He specializes in creating and implementing effective solutions for online stores, supporting companies in developing their digital presence. He co-creates appropriate strategies for e-businesses, conducts audits, and oversees marketing activities—always combining analytical knowledge with market practice. He is the author and co-author of content published on the swiatcyfrowy.pl website—based on his many years of consulting, analytical, and operational experience. The materials created are intended to provide reliable, valuable knowledge that truly supports the development of online businesses. The content here is designed to address the real challenges and needs of companies operating in the e-commerce environment (the digital world).
