Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban announced Friday that his government is preparing plans to protect jobs and the country's manufacturing industry in response to the recently concluded trade agreement between the United States and the European Union. The announcement was made during an appearance on Hungarian public radio.
The agreement, unveiled Sunday, includes the imposition of a 15% tariff on certain European exports to the United States. This is a significant increase from the current rate of 2,5%, and particularly targets the automotive sector, a key economic driver for Hungary and its Central European neighbors.
"We must defend Hungarian workers," Orban said, stressing that the consequences of this agreement could undermine jobs linked to the automotive industry, a strategic sector in the country. However, he has not yet detailed the measures his government plans to implement.
Hungary, which is home to several international car factories, fears a competitive disadvantage compared to American production in the North American market. The prime minister also suggested that his government could discuss compensation or adjustment mechanisms within the European Union.
This new agreement comes amid complex economic relations between Brussels and Washington, and rekindles debates in Hungary about economic dependence on major powers. Orban, known for his critical stance toward Brussels, could take advantage of this situation to strengthen his sovereignist rhetoric in the run-up to the next elections.
The Hungarian government plans to present its first concrete proposals in the coming weeks, with the stated aim of "preserving supply chains and jobs" in an increasingly uncertain climate for international trade.
