China's GBA and Hungary Seal Billion-Dollar Investment Agreements
In a landmark event in Budapest, representatives from China's Greater Bay Area (GBA) and Hungary gathered on May 21, 2025, to discuss expanding economic and trade cooperation. This high-profile conference saw the initiation of 36 investment projects amounting to over $3.8 billion, a clear indicator of the deepening ties between the two regions.
Among the noteworthy developments was the planned establishment of a new European headquarters for BYD in Budapest. BYD, a leading electric vehicle manufacturer based in Guangdong, is set to enhance its European operations, reflecting Hungary's status as an attractive location for Chinese investments. As stated by Gong Tao, the Chinese ambassador to Hungary, the country has become a favored destination for Chinese investments in Europe. He emphasized that cooperation between the two parties continues to grow, with numerous collaborative projects progressing steadily.
China's role as a primary source of foreign direct investment (FDI) in Hungary has been firm for two consecutive years. In fact, it is projected that 51% of Hungary's foreign direct investments will originate from China in 2024. Peto Erno, the chairman of the Hungary-China Economic Chamber, remarked on Hungary’s strategic position in Central Europe that facilitates access to other EU markets, making it an ideal entry point for Chinese investments. In 2024 alone, Guangdong’s investments in Hungary surged by an impressive 113%, with major companies such as Huawei, ZTE, and BYD creating more than 10,000 local jobs.
The Deputy Foreign Minister of Hungary, Levente Magyar, underscored that their approach transcends mere economic collaboration. "We are not just looking for investors. We seek friends," he said, highlighting the importance of building relations beyond financial transactions.
As the conference attracted significant media attention, potential economic synergies were explored, showcasing advancements in sectors such as technology, automotive industry, and renewable energy. Hungary's central location and well-established infrastructure provide an advantageous platform for these investments. Moreover, the increasing footprint of Chinese companies in Hungary enhances local employment opportunities and fosters innovation.
The discussions at the conference concluded on a positive note, with both Chinese and Hungarian leaders expressing optimism about the future of their economic relations. With both regions committed to fostering strong partnerships, the outlook for joint ventures appears promising, indicative of a growing trend in global investment patterns. This conference marks yet another stride towards deepening the integration between China and Hungary, reflecting the broader trend of China's increasing influence in Central European markets.
The signing of these agreements reflects an ambitious vision for future collaboration. As businesses from both the GBA and Hungary explore new avenues for growth and development, the potential for innovation and success appears boundless. The initiatives launched at this conference not only promise economic benefits but also symbolize a commitment to nurturing strong bilateral relationships in the years to come.
For those following developments in international economics, this partnership between China and Hungary is undoubtedly one to watch. The implications extend far beyond immediate financial investments; they highlight a strategic shift in how nations collaborate in the global market. As such, the conference held in Budapest stands as a significant milestone in China's increasing engagement with Europe, and particularly with Hungary.