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Government Commissioner and Hipa CEO István Joó emphasized the achievement, “Although strict conditions must be met to conclude the agreement, we have still succeeded in winning a long list of global companies as strategic partners.”
He also underlined the fact that Hungary continues to attract corporations committed to long-term operations and development in the country.
The strategic partnership policy was introduced at a time when Hungary was emerging from the global financial crisis and seeking a new foundation for economic growth. The approach created direct cooperation forums between government and major investors, resulting in more efficient communication, strengthened mutual trust, and a more competitive business environment.
According to Joó, “All this has greatly contributed to Hungary having become the most attractive investment destination in the Central and Eastern European region today.”
The program’s breadth highlights its global appeal. U.S. and German companies lead the partnership list (16 each), followed by Chinese firms with 11 agreements. One in ten strategic partners is Hungarian-owned. In total, companies from 20 countries and 25 different sectors are represented—from automotive and pharmaceuticals to IT, logistics, business services, telecommunications, and medical technologies.
Hipa tracks the economic performance of partner companies when agreements are signed and on an ongoing basis. The data reflect long-term strategy, continuous development, and expansion. Thyssenkrupp has increased its Hungarian workforce by around 2,200 people since signing, while India’s Tata Group has added roughly 1,100. In just one year, partners reported an additional HUF 644 billion in revenue.
Joó highlighted the wider impact: “This also means that without them, the doubling of Hungary’s export performance since 2010 could certainly not have been achieved, despite the difficulties of the global economy.”
The 100 partners now employ nearly 200,000 people in Hungary and generated almost HUF 25 trillion in net sales in 2024 — a substantial share of the national GDP. With an export ratio approaching 70%, their production strongly reinforces Hungary’s global economic integration.
Strategic working groups, formed under the program, have become essential to effective cooperation. These enable regular policy dialogue, sharing of best practices, and coordination on priorities. Suzuki has been among the most active participants from the start, providing direct updates about decisions — including the launch of its first electric model in India with plans for the Hungarian market, and the expansion of its solar power plant in Esztergom to support local energy supply. In turn, company leaders receive early information on regulatory developments and infrastructure projects.
As Joó put it, “Over nearly a decade and a half, the institution of strategic partnership has become an indispensable element of healthy and effective communication between the government and the business sector.”
With its 100th agreement now concluded, the initiative remains a central pillar of Hungary’s economic strategy.
Joó stated: “This is why the 100th Strategic Cooperation Agreement is of outstanding importance, yet it is far from the end of the road, but only a milestone from which we continue forward with unchanged commitment.”
Hipa stresses that the partnerships are designed to build on past achievements, harness current momentum, and leverage future opportunities, all in service of Hungary’s lasting economic success.
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