Hungary’s new government turns up pressure on China’s BYD, CATL
Hungary's new government is reviewing opaque funding and investment deals with Chinese companies. Prime Minister Peter Magyar, who took office in May, aims to repair relations with the European Union. This marks a shift from the previous pro-China policies. The government will reexamine individual investment projects, including those with Chinese EV giant BYD. BYD plans to open an EV plant in Szeged this year.
Hungary's shift away from China creates immediate friction for companies like BYD and CATL. The government is tightening environmental regulations and scrutinizing past subsidy agreements. BYD faces scrutiny over a secret subsidy deal and the agreed acceptance of 10,000 Chinese workers. Allegations of excessive working hours at its Szeged plant are also under review.
This new stance directly impacts Chinese EV and battery makers seeking an EU manufacturing base. The EU's 2024 tariffs on Chinese EVs already complicate their European strategy. Hungary's moves will force companies like BYD and CATL to adapt quickly. China's Semcorp already lost its operating permit in June after aluminum concentrations exceeded legal limits.
The test for Chinese companies is how they navigate these new regulatory hurdles. Hungary's new environmental agency, expected this month, will have authority to suspend production. Beijing will likely avoid major confrontation, but the era of privileged access in Hungary is over. Watch for other Central European nations to follow suit.
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