A Brussels court issued a non-final ruling against Poland in a dispute with Pfizer over a 2021 vaccine supply agreement on April 1, 2026.
Poland and Pfizer’s Vaccine Contract Dispute
On April 1, 2026, the French-speaking Court of First Instance in Brussels issued a non-final ruling in a case brought by Pfizer Export against the Republic of Poland. The dispute concerns the implementation of a contract concluded in 2021 by the European Commission with Pfizer for the supply of COVID-19 vaccines, and Poland’s 2022 decision to withdraw from its execution.
Court Ruling and Financial Implications
The court of first instance upheld the plaintiff’s claims, ordering the Republic of Poland to pay Pfizer Export the amount indicated in the lawsuit, plus interest. This amount is approximately 5.6 billion PLN. Additionally, the court ruled that Poland must accept approximately 64 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines, in accordance with the terms of the original agreement.
Appeal Process and Legal Analysis
The ruling is not final, meaning Poland has the right to appeal. The appellate proceedings constitute a full-fledged stage of the process, in which the parties can re-present factual and legal arguments, and also raise new circumstances. After a judgment is issued by the second instance court, it will also be possible to file a cassation complaint.
Poland Announces Appeal
Poland has announced an appeal against the ruling.
Detailed Legal Analysis Required
The content of the decision requires a detailed legal analysis, especially regarding the manner of its execution. Doubts concern, among other things, the financial settlement mechanism, as well as the practical aspects of fulfilling the obligation to receive a large number of vaccine doses. Issues related to the schedule of potential deliveries and their adaptation to current health and logistical needs also remain important.
Polish Response and Future Actions
The Polish side announced that it would use all available legal means to change the unfavorable ruling and protect its interests. Further actions will be taken after a thorough analysis of the ruling and after inter-ministerial consultations, in cooperation with the RP’s procedural attorney and the General Prosecutor’s Office of the Republic of Poland.