Hungary Opposition Plans New Deal to Revive Economy Ahead 2025 Vote

Hungary's opposition leader Peter Magyar has unveiled a comprehensive 'Hungarian New Deal' aimed at revitalizing the country's struggling economy ahead of the 2025 parliamentary elections. His centre-right Tisza party, currently leading in polls against Prime Minister Viktor Orban's Fidesz, proposes large-scale investments in healthcare, housing, railway modernization, education, and energy efficiency, alongside anti-corruption measures and reclaiming state assets. Magyar also pledged to secure approximately €20 billion in EU funds suspended due to concerns over democratic backsliding and corruption under Orban's government, which the prime minister denies. The economic outlook is further complicated by President Donald Trump’s recent imposition of 30% tariffs on EU imports, posing risks to Hungary’s export-driven recovery. While Orban has passed tax cuts favoring families in his 2026 budget to shore up support, public dissatisfaction with his long-standing rule appears to be growing, with Magyar positioning himself as a reformist alternative offering predictable policies and renewed economic growth. The election date remains unconfirmed but is expected early next year.