Automotive Mission to Hungary

The automotive industry is one of the cornerstones of Hungary’s economy, contributing roughly 21% of its total exports and involving over 700 companies with around 100,000 people employed. Major Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) such as Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Suzuki, and Opel already have large production facilities in Hungary, embedding the country deeply in the European automotive production and supply chain.
 
Over recent years, Hungary has become a favourite destination for Chinese investment in automotive and EV technology. Notable projects include CATL’s investment of about €7.3 billion to build a 100 GWh battery plant in Debrecen, which is set to serve many European carmakers. Furthermore, BYD has been expanding operations – its electric bus factory in Komárom is being scaled up, and a new European car production base is being established in Szeged. Besides, BYD has moved its European HQ and R&D department to Budapest, too.
 
On the component side, Chinese firms are also investing heavily. For example, Zhejiang Shuanghuan Driveline is setting up a factory for EV gears and shafts in Jászfényszaru (central Hungary), creating hundreds of jobs. There’s also Xinzhi, building a plant in Hatvan for electric motor components.
These Chinese investments are reshaping Hungary’s role in the green mobility transition, making it not just a production base for conventional automobiles, but a pivotal hub for EVs, batteries, and related upstream & downstream industries. Moreover, governmental policy has been supportive, offering incentives and regulatory frameworks to attract and retain foreign investors in the automotive sector.

Our trip is to explore the business opportunities, and what these investments mean for Swiss automotive companies.

Our offer:

•    The Fact-Finding Trip provides an in-depth look into the Hungarian automotive market, offering insights into key business opportunities, tailored matchmaking activities, and exclusive high-level networking possibilities.
•    The mission focuses on exploring Hungary’s E-Vehicle landscape, including site visits to leading OEMs and Tier-1 suppliers, as well as structured meet-and-greet and speed-dating sessions with potential partners.
•    A highlight of the mission will be a high-level event at the Swiss Embassy, hosted by the Swiss Ambassador to Hungary, HE Alexander Renggli, bringing together all participants in a prestigious networking setting.
•    Participants will also benefit from a presentation on Hungary’s investment ecosystem and available investment funds, complemented by a visit to an already established Swiss investor in the country, providing practical insights and firsthand experience.