Berlin-based credit rating agency Scope Ratings has reaffirmed Hungary’s long-term credit rating at ‘BBB’ and upheld its stable outlook. With this decision, Hungary continues to be considered an investment-grade country, aligning with the assessments of other major credit rating agencies, the Ministry for National Economy (NGM) announced on Saturday.
In its statement, the ministry highlighted that Scope Ratings positively evaluated Hungary’s investments aimed at boosting competitiveness and acknowledged the country’s resilience in the face of external economic shocks.
According to the credit agency, Hungary exhibits strong economic momentum and favourable medium-term growth prospects. Scope expects the country’s fiscal deficit and public debt levels to decline over the coming years. The agency also pointed to the healthy structure of Hungary’s national debt and its reduced vulnerability to external shocks, thanks to a high proportion of domestic financing. Additionally, Hungary’s external balance remains stable, and major capacity-expanding investments are seen as supportive of future economic performance.
The ministry emphasized that Hungary’s financing conditions remain stable and secure. The government remains committed to strict fiscal discipline, which plays a key role in curbing both the deficit and national debt. In line with this fiscal approach, next year’s budget is designed to be balanced in its primary position—excluding interest payments on debt.
Officials also underlined that Hungary’s economy stands on solid foundations and remains an attractive destination for international investors. Internal economic indicators continue to show positive trends: real wages have been rising for over 18 months, tourism is on track for another record year, employment levels remain high with 4.7 million people working, and unemployment is at a historic low. The automotive and housing markets are also showing signs of revival, with increased transactions and consumer lending on the rise.
In parallel with fiscal and economic measures, the government is pressing ahead with efforts to strengthen industry and support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). As part of the New Economic Policy Action Plan, the Demján Sándor Programme has allocated 1,400 billion forints to improve SME productivity, efficiency, and competitiveness. Additionally, the government has expanded its 100 New Factories initiative to now target the establishment of 150 new industrial plants.
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