Latest news in Hungary - 7 Jan 2025

** Fuel prices increasing ** Forint hits new low ** BKK passes changing ** Bird flu detected ** Carmelite building blessed ** MVM to expand to Romania **

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January 07, 2025

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- Carmelite Building Blessed for the New Year: The Carmelite, which houses Hungary's Prime Minister's Office, received a traditional blessing for the new year. Deputy Prime Minister Zsolt Semjén emphasized this as a fresh start. This year marks a significant change following previous scandals associated with the blessing. Read more here

- Fuel Prices Increase Due to Weakening Forint: Rising fuel prices are now affecting Hungary, with 95-octane gasoline expected to reach 628 HUF per liter and diesel at 647 HUF. This increase is attributed to the forint's continued weakness against the dollar, marking an 11.7% rise in gasoline prices compared to last year. Read more here

- Changes to Budapest Transport Passes: The Budapest Transport Center is discontinuing several ticket and pass types, including half-month and quarterly student and pensioner passes. The annual Mol Bubi pass will be replaced with a six-month version. Passengers can still carry one dog or bicycle for free, but additional pets or bikes will require separate tickets. Read more here

- Bird Flu Detected in Szabolcs-Szatmár-Bereg: The H5N1 bird flu has been confirmed at a poultry farm in Nyírbátor. Authorities have established protective and surveillance zones, emphasizing the need for strict biosecurity measures to prevent further spread of the virus. Read more here

- MÁV to Add Over 130 Buses Including Hydrogen-Powered Option: Hungarian State Railways (MÁV) is expanding its fleet with 131 new buses, including one hydrogen-powered model, aimed at modernizing transportation across various counties. This initiative is part of a significant investment to improve public transit services. Read more here

- Political Landscape Shifts Ahead of 2026 Elections: As Hungary prepares for the 2026 elections, political dynamics are changing, with leaders from different parties adjusting strategies. The government projects a hopeful economic growth rate, yet skepticism remains prevalent as opposition metrics come into play. Read more here

- Concerns Over MVM's Expansion in Romania: Hungary’s MVM Group seeks to acquire a majority stake in E.ON Energie Romania, raising alarms in Romania about potential Russian influence in energy supply amid ongoing safety and energy independence concerns. Read more here

- Forint Hits Two-Year Low Amid Trump Tariff Controversy: The Hungarian forint reached a two-year low against the euro as rumors about potential tariff changes have caused volatility in the currency market. This fluctuation underscores the ongoing economic pressures facing Hungary. Read more here

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