In the first six months of 2026, Hungary exported goods worth more than EUR 81 billion. Machinery and transport equipment accounted for around 60 percent of exports. Yet gross export value is only one measure of a country's external economic performance. An equally important question is how much of the value of exported goods is actually created within Hungary. According to the OECD's latest comparable data, there is still considerable room for improvement here.

Elisabeth Mayer

2026. augusztus 26.•9min

In June, the volume of Hungarian merchandise exports grew by 8.7 percent year on year. Behind the impressive figure, however, lie a significant calendar effect and a weak first-half performance. Meanwhile, another, strategically important trend is emerging: while Hungarian exports to the EU declined, exports to markets outside the Union expanded. The question is therefore no longer just when export growth will resume on a lasting basis, but also how far Hungarian companies can reduce their exposure to foreign markets.

Elisabeth Mayer

2026. augusztus 25.•9min

A strengthening forint may appear to be a favourable economic development, particularly for consumers and importers. For export-oriented Hungarian companies, however, rapid exchange rate movements can cause serious revenue, profitability, and competitiveness pressure.

Botond Barabás

2026. május 7.•6min