Swedish Chamber of Commerce in Hungary (SCCH)

Lucia celebrations have always held a significant place within the Swedish community, symbolizing light and hope during the darkest days of the winter. End the year in style with Team Sweden, with Swedish music, delicacies, and excellent company. In addition to networking, the program includes welcome remarks by the Ambassador of Sweden and the President of the SCCH, a Lucia choir performance, seated dinner, and an Abba show.

• When: Monday, Dec. 9, 6-10:30 p.m. • Where: Crowne Plaza Budapest, Váci út 1-3, Budapest 1066. • Fee: Members HUF 59,000/person; non-members HUF 75,000/person.

Swiss-Hungarian Chamber of Commerce (Swisscham)

Registration is now open for Swisscham Hungary’s annual Christmas reception, which will take place in the atmospheric surroundings of the W Hotel Budapest, opposite the Opera House. The reception is a fantastic opportunity to build new relationships and nurture existing ones in a festive yet informal environment. Look back on the year together, laugh and have fun in each other’s company because that’s what Christmas is all about!

• When: Thursday, Dec. 5, from 10-11:30 a.m. • Where:  W Hotel Budapest, Andrássy út 25, Budapest 1061 • Fee:  Members HUF 34,000 HUF/person (0% VAT); non-members HUF 48,000/person (0% VAT)

German-Hungarian Chamber of Industry and Commerce (DUIHK)

German companies in Hungary do not have exuberant expectations for business development in the coming 12 months. This was the result of the latest economic survey conducted by the DUIHK.

For three-quarters of companies, a lack of demand is the most frequently cited risk, meaning that optimists and pessimists are roughly equally represented regarding their own business, employment, and investment plans. However, companies are also concerned about labor costs. They have risen by two-thirds in less than five years, and every second company sees this as a business risk.

Even so, the survey also offers some positive results. An (admittedly small) majority rate their competitiveness as better than five years ago. Interestingly, the often-criticized strict sustainability requirements in Germany are apparently helping German companies abroad to achieve a better competitive position.

Of course, the survey is a snapshot in time, and it took place before the U.S. elections and the collapse of the so-called “traffic light coalition” in Germany. Many of the results of the survey are in line with the predictions of other organizations. It is, therefore, to be hoped that the reality may turn out to be somewhat better than the currently very cautious forecasts. The results of the survey in full can be found on ahkungarn.hu

Hungarian-French Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCIFH)

Join the CCIFH for its festive year closing cocktail party in a friendly atmosphere, with quality live music by Latte Maffiato Salon Jazz Band, mulled wine, a buffet of Christmas flavors, stands with Christmas goodies, and a raffle draw (bring your business card to participate). Several new members will be presented as well.

• When: Wednesday, Dec. 11, 6-8 p.m. • Where: Courtyard by Marriott Budapest City Center, Blaha Lujza terem, József körút 5, Budapest 1088 • Fee: Members HUF 14,900 + VAT; non-members HUF 21,900 + VAT

Netherlands-Hungarian Chamber of Commerce (Dutcham)

Get into the holly-jolly spirit at Dutcham’s annual Christmas Drinks networker. Celebrate the closing of the year in good company with fine bites and warm drinks as you reconnect with fellow members over a cup of mulled wine and winter meals. Please note that this is a partly outside event, so wear warm clothes. Participation fee includes food and beverages consumed from 6-9 p.m.

• When: Thursday, Dec. 19, 6-9 p.m. • Where: The Cult Terrace, Crowne Plaza Budapest, Westend Shopping Mall) • Fee: Members HUF 21,900 + VAT; non-members: HUF 25,900 + VAT

Belgian Business Club in Hungary (Belgabiz)

Belgabiz will hold an “Art & Wine” networking event to celebrate the season. Tasting some highlights of the Tokaj/Tállya region, an art fair showcasing pieces from contemporary Hungarian artists, with some of them attending, tasteful bites and surprises and, most importantly, the sparkling international company of the chamber’s community.

• When: Wednesday, Dec. 4, 6-9 p.m. • Where: TokajArtWine Gallery, Hold u. 21, Budapest 1054 • Fee: members free; non-members HUF 18,000

This article was first published in the Budapest Business Journal print issue of November 29, 2024.