Within the framework of the new economy protection action plan introduced by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán to bolster the Hungarian economy during the epidemic crisis, Minister for Agriculture István Nagy provided details related to the agriculture sector.
“First, I would like to say thank you to the agricultural sector and workers in the food industry for their efforts in these difficult times,” Nagy said, adding that “food production is one of the most important pillars of the Hungarian economy.”
The minister emphasized that the main goal is to provide revenue opportunities. “Therefore, local governments can reopen markets, and a website has also been launched so that as many people as possible can take part in seasonal agricultural work,” Nagy said. He added that in the spirit of solidarity, he has also asked commercial units to intensify their cooperation with domestic suppliers in the agricultural and food industries, thus helping to supply the Hungarian population with quality Hungarian goods.
Nagy further announced that the loan provided by the Ministry will be available to the smallest farmers as well; the credit line will be increased to HUF 200 million from the former HUF 100 million, and all credit costs will be taken over by the Ministry. Additionally, he said that for those sectors most affected, employers will be exempted from paying contributions.
On the coronavirus defense front, Colonel Tibor Kiss, head of the Operational Group, reported that 4,692 actions had been taken over the Easter weekend. “Most people complied with the restrictions, but there were many reports on the southern shore of Lake Balaton, and there were also many people around larger malls,” he said, adding that “warnings continue to be preferred by the authorities, but we should start moving towards fines where it’s necessary.”
Cecília Müller, Hungary’s Chief Medical Officer, also reported on current data regarding the coronavirus in Hungary. “All medication that is used to relieve symptoms is available,” she said, adding that “the protection of healthcare workers is very important, as the epidemic is showing rising trends.”
Müller additionally pointed out that for those leaving the hospital, “two negative tests are acceptable or two weeks of quarantine.” She further explained that “after a two-week quarantine, it can be stated that the person is not infectious. However, after recovering from the coronavirus, there are people who relapse, while in the case of others, immunity develops.”