Prime Minister Viktor Orbán laid out a vision centered on reducing taxes, boosting entrepreneurship, and increasing the role of Hungarian-owned companies in driving growth.
“We’re preparing for tax cuts,” said the prime minister, outlining that the budget provides room for a new wave of economic easing in the coming year. While he did not specify exact rates, Prime Minister Orbán made clear that the direction is set: fewer burdens on businesses and workers to stimulate growth.
A key moment in the interview was PM Orbán’s introduction of a new 3 percent interest loan program aimed at small and medium-sized Hungarian businesses. This initiative is expected to counterbalance the high central bank base rate, offering more favorable conditions for domestic enterprises to invest and expand.
“Access to credit must not be a privilege,” the prime minister stated, highlighting the need for affordable financing in the current climate.
Prime Minister Orbán also addressed the status of Hungary’s simplified tax system for sole proprietors, known as KATA. He acknowledged public dissatisfaction after previous restrictions were introduced but indicated that reopening the KATA framework — particularly for intellectual or “brain-based” work — was under serious consideration.
“The Hungarian brain is the most valuable economic asset,” he declared, suggesting that the government is looking for ways to support high-skill, individual entrepreneurship more effectively.
Turning to broader economic strategy, the prime minister pointed out that Hungary is steadily recovering from the shocks of the past two years, including war-related disruptions and inflation. With inflation now significantly lower and energy prices stabilized, the government aims to return to a growth-focused policy mix.
At the heart of this new phase is the strengthening of the Hungarian ownership share in the economy. PM Orbán reiterated his government’s long-standing goal to see 50 percent of banking, retail, and media ownership in domestic hands. This, he argued, ensures that the profits generated in Hungary remain in the country and are reinvested locally. He pointed to the banking sector as a success story, where Hungarian ownership has already reached 60 percent.
Looking ahead, Prime Minister Orbán confirmed that the government intends to maintain its policy of “economic patriotism” while continuing to invest in strategic sectors and protect national interests.
“This is about defending what is ours, while creating space for Hungarians to thrive in their own country,” the prime minister concluded.