Poland is the third biggest country in Central & Eastern Europe in terms of population (around 40 million) and the second largest in terms of GDP (US $189.3 billion at the end of 2002). Key plastic markets are expanding: around 360,000 new cars were sold in 2003 and in January-March 2004 a total of 27,695 homes were completed. The use of packaging is around 50% of that found in the old EU states, and is expanding with a current estimated value of US $3 billion. This conference was designed for companies wanting to do business with Poland. Papers at this event discussed the legal aspects, markets, culture and local funding and provided a discussion forum for potential investors, importers and exporters, together with Polish industry representatives and market experts.