Latest news in Hungary - 1 Apr 2025

Government Proposes Stricter Drug Laws: A new legislative package aimed at tightening drug enforcement will be submitted to Hungary's National Assembly, classifying the use of synthetic substances as a crime, with a focus on zero tolerance for drug trafficking. The proposed changes will impact diversion, rehabilitation, and prevention efforts, with further developments on involving drug prevention organizations expected soon. Read more here

Major Drug Bust in Hungary: Police have seized nearly 16 kg of speed, along with ecstasy, cocaine, and marijuana, valued at 45 million forints, from drug dealers in Csepel and surrounding areas. Four suspects have been arrested as part of a joint operation by the National Investigation Office and local police, highlighting the government's intensified anti-drug efforts. Read more here

Over Half a Million Vote in Tisza Initiative: Within just one week of its launch, the Tisza Party's 'Voice of the Nation' initiative has garnered over 500,000 votes from Hungarians aged 16 and older, with a strong online and offline engagement supported by nearly 10,000 volunteers across the country. However, the voting process has been marred by incidents of aggression against volunteers, prompting calls for political support against such violence. Read more here

Hungary Revises GDP Growth Forecast: The government has downgraded its GDP growth forecast for this year from 3.4% to 2.5%, with an expectation of 4.1% growth for 2026 and 2027. Inflation is projected to average around 4.5%, as discussions on potential price caps for bank service fees and telecommunications continue. Read more here

Expansion of Pedestrian Streets in Budapest: Vitézy Dávid and Niedermüller Péter have discussed plans to expand the pedestrian street network in Inner-Erzsébetváros, aiming to make the area more livable and greener by potentially making streets like Kazinczy and Dob car-free. While Vitézy envisions promoting urban development beyond partisan conflicts, Niedermüller has requested more consultations before moving forward with these proposals. Read more here

Traffic Disruptions in Budapest for Netanyahu's Visit: From April 2 to April 6, several roads across eight districts in Budapest will face intermittent closures due to the visit of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. A no-parking rule will be in effect from Tuesday morning until Sunday, with detailed traffic changes available on the Police.hu website. Read more here

Hungary Plans National Space Agency: At the REMTECH Space Technology Center's topping-out ceremony, Minister Márton Nagy announced preparations for Hungary's space law and the establishment of a National Space Agency, aiming to enhance the country's presence in the space industry. The €10 billion investment in the Martonvásár center will create at least 85 high-value jobs and is linked to the launch of a new Hungarian satellite in 2027. Read more here

New Cycling Trail Kéktúra for Adventurers: The new "Kéktúra for Cyclists," also known as Horizont, has inaugurated its first 458-kilometer section, featuring a mix of terrain ideal for more experienced mountain bikers. While the current route only covers the middle third, the complete 1500-kilometer trail is expected to be passable next year. The project, funded at 40 million forints, aims to enhance cycling tourism with user-friendly app features and services. Read more here

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