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The decision follows talks between industry representatives and Economy and Energy Minister István Kapitány, Finance Minister András Kármán, and Transport and Investment Minister Dávid Vitézy.
Operators identified high fuel prices and declining demand for freight services as their biggest challenges, Vitézy told a government press conference.
He said industry representatives reported that foreign investors establishing operations in Hungary were not required to use domestic freight companies. New industrial producers often hired foreign operators that could offer lower prices, in some cases because EU wage rules did not apply to them, he added.
The temporary relief will allow eligible operators to reclaim diesel excise tax against invoices through the relevant platforms of the National Tax and Customs Administration (NAV), using an arrangement similar to that available to agricultural businesses. The government estimates the measure will cost the budget approximately HUF 6 bln.
As part of a broader package, authorities will also tighten road toll enforcement. More personnel will check payments, while the ministry, road operator Magyar Közút, NAV and the police will coordinate their work more closely.
Industry associations support stronger enforcement, arguing that domestic and foreign operators evading tolls gain an unfair advantage over competitors that comply with the rules.
The government is also considering easing certain transit and weight restrictions in consultation with affected local communities.
Rules governing truck traffic bans will undergo a review after 20 years, with the aim of protecting residents and the environment while removing unnecessary restrictions.
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