Policy development of the Trans-European transport network TEN-T is one of the best-defined areas of the EU's common transport policy. Obtaining funds for the development of the TEN-T is a way of overcoming the financial barriers to the development of transport infrastructure. In Poland, inland waterway transport has a marginal role in the transport system of the country. This is a consequence of limited funds for maintenance, development and modernization of waterways. Polish waterways are not included in the TEN-T network because of the non-compliance of international technical standards. It can be assumed that this will have far-reaching negative effects on the functioning of inland waterway and for the realization of transport policy in Poland in accordance with European guidelines. As a consequence, it negatively affects the competitiveness of the economy, especially in regions with access to the waterway.