Addressing business leaders and policymakers, the prime minister made it clear that 2025 is a decisive year for Hungary’s economic future. "This is the year of breakthrough," he declared, adding, "and breakthroughs require attack."
PM Orbán reflected on past agreements between the Hungarian government and the business sector, emphasizing the role of long-term cooperation in fostering economic growth. He recalled the historic deal struck before the 2010 elections, under which the government committed to reducing corporate taxes, launching state-backed investment programs, and creating one million new jobs within ten years. "At the time, people laughed at us," he said. "They thought it was impossible. But we did it."
The prime minister also referenced subsequent agreements with business leaders under President László Parragh of the Hungarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, including a pledge to keep Hungary’s growth above the EU average and maintain the investment rate above 25%. According to PM Orbán, these commitments were fulfilled, reinforcing Hungary’s position as a business-friendly country. "Since 2010, our foreign direct investment stock, as a percentage of GDP, is the second highest in the region—only the Czechs are ahead of us," he noted.
Looking ahead, PM Orbán reiterated his government's unwavering stance on tax reduction and economic stability. "We are the government of tax cuts, and we will remain so," he affirmed. Hungary currently boasts the lowest corporate tax rate in the EU and ranks as the seventh most competitive tax regime among developed nations. However, he set his sights higher: "The question is not why we are not first—but what we need to do to get there."
To support businesses, the government plans to streamline regulations and simplify taxation further. "Bureaucracy reduction is not just a slogan; it is an economic necessity," he stressed, urging the new chamber leadership to support this effort. He also pledged increased financial assistance to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), highlighting the government’s commitment to injecting 1,730 billion forints into the business sector this year—50% more than in 2024.
The prime minister outlined three key pillars of Hungary’s economic strategy: work, family, and investment. "Our tax system must encourage work, support families, and reward investment," he explained. One of the government’s most significant tax policies—the lifetime income tax exemption for mothers with three or more children—was framed as a long-term structural shift. "This is not a temporary measure," PM Orbán insisted. "Once we introduce it, it cannot be taken away."
Regarding employment, the prime minister dismissed claims that Hungary has run out of workers. "Our analysis shows that 300,000 Hungarian citizens are still available for work," he said, suggesting that targeted policies, training programs, and regional economic adjustments could mobilize this untapped workforce.
Investment, particularly in advanced technology, will be a cornerstone of economic growth. "We cannot afford to fall behind in the global technological race," he warned. The government will continue to attract foreign investment, particularly in industries that drive innovation. "The investments we welcome must not only create jobs but also help Hungary transition to a new technological era."
PM Orbán raised concerns over the EU’s regulatory framework, warning against unchecked adoption of European rules. "The state is not capable of adopting EU regulations at a reasonable pace and scale," he said. "If left unchecked, bureaucracy will push for full adoption, even when it harms the Hungarian economy." He urged the business community to play a role in shaping how Hungary integrates EU policies, advocating for a balanced approach that serves national interests.
Turning to international affairs, PM Orbán defended his decision to veto an EU agreement on further financial and military aid to Ukraine. "That document is about sending more weapons and more money to Ukraine," he said. "Hungary has fought for three years to stay out of this war. We have not sent weapons, and we have not sent money. Why would we change now, just when the Americans are moving towards our position?"
He revealed that the war has cost Hungary 20 billion euros in economic losses over the past three years, making peace a strategic necessity. "If any country should be pushing for an immediate end to the war, it is Hungary. This war must end as soon as possible."
PM Orbán emphasized Hungary’s growing partnership with the United States, particularly under the new US administration. "For the first time in a long while, Washington and Budapest are on the same page," he remarked, highlighting negotiations for a US-Hungary economic cooperation package. He also expressed confidence in Hungary’s security, citing strong NATO alliances with the United States and Turkey.
PM Orbán concluded his speech by reiterating his aggressive economic strategy for 2025. Drawing a parallel to football, he recalled a humorous locker-room exchange before a Hungarian parliamentary football match against the British. "When our late colleague Jenő Lasztovicza announced the lineup, I saw that everyone was a forward. I asked him, 'Jenő, who will defend?' He replied, 'The opponent will.'"
"This," PM Orbán said, "is how the Hungarian government envisions 2025. Attack, push forward, and break through."