Poland’s announcement that it’s deploying a new electronic ID credential is a positive development for the smart card industry, according to Frost & Sullivan. Also increased applications for smart card technologies within Poland and Europe will accelerate demand in other areas and generate incremental revenues for the smart card industry.
The Polish ID project anticipates a budget of more than $130 million of which approximately $110 million will be funded by the European Union. With a planned duration of four years, the groundwork is expected to be laid in time for the first issuance of a national e-ID by January 2011. The Polish Security Printing Works is already investing heavily in infrastructure necessary to accommodate the IT overhaul for this project.
Unlike other countries like Spain or the Netherlands, Poland will likely issue the new ID cards free of charge. Valid for ten years, the cards will store personal data, a digital photograph and personal digital signature and, possibly, additional biometric information.
As highlighted in the recent Frost & Sullivan World Government & ID study, broader smartcard adoption in society is a significant driver for use in other areas. The consultancy says a second wave of e-ID projects will boost not only the government ID segment within the smart card market but also other segments such as corporate access, health care and payments. ![[end]](/resources/bullet/thirdfactor-4.gif)
