Latest news in Hungary - 22 Jul 2025

BYD Delays Production in Szeged: Chinese automaker BYD has postponed the mass production of its electric vehicle factory in Szeged, Hungary, until 2026, operating below planned capacity for the first two years. Meanwhile, a new plant in Turkey will start production sooner and is expected to exceed its initial capacity, raising concerns about the impact on EU investments and jobs. Read more here

New Digital Citizenship Website Launched: The Digital Hungary Agency has launched the DÁP website, providing accessible information on key life events such as child birth and purchasing property, enhancing the Digital Citizenship Program alongside its mobile app. Users can find guidance on administrative processes related to these events, with plans to integrate actual transaction capabilities in the future. Read more here

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Alanis Morissette Celebrates Heritage in Budapest: At her concert on Monday at Budapest Park, Alanis Morissette invited her Hungarian family on stage while performing "Jagged Little Pill," highlighting her roots as the daughter of a Hungarian immigrant. This performance is part of her 35-date Triple Moon tour, marking the 30th anniversary of her iconic song "Ironic." Read more here

Orbán Responds to Church Vandalism Allegations: Prime Minister Viktor Orbán defended Hungary against suggestions by Russia expert András Rácz that the government was involved in vandalizing a church in Transcarpathia. In a heated exchange on Facebook, Rácz challenged Orbán's stance, insisting that personal attacks are not a substitute for facts, and emphasized the importance of examining Hungary's relationships with Russia. Read more here

Mayflies Emerge Early in Budapest: The emergence of Mayflies in Budapest is occurring earlier than usual this year, likely due to low water levels in the Danube, prompting Mayor Gergely Karácsony to activate special light barriers on the Árpád Bridge to protect this endangered species and enhance their mating dance experience. Read more here

Central Bank Maintains Base Rate: The Monetary Council of the Hungarian National Bank has kept the base interest rate unchanged at 6.50% during its July meeting, as the current inflation rate stands at 4.6%. This decision follows the last cut in September last year. Read more here

Kolorádó Festival Seeks New Home: After announcing its discontinuation, the Kolorádó Festival's organizers are on the hunt for a new venue that meets specific criteria, including being at least 1.5 kilometers from populated areas and ideally featuring multiple buildings and access to utilities. The search for a suitable location follows tensions with their previous site in Pilisi Parkerdő, amidst a troubling trend of festival closures in Hungary. Read more here

Public Consultation on Home Start Housing Loan: The Hungarian government has submitted the Home Start Housing Loan decree for public consultation, allowing feedback until July 29. The program includes a 3% interest rate on loans up to 50 million forints for eligible applicants who have not owned residential property in urban areas for the past ten years. Additional details, including conditions and potential penalties for non-compliance, have also been outlined. Read more here

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