"We are continuously looking for the means with which we can defend Hungarian families; so, for example, we're expanding the use of the SZÉP card to food from February," Orbán said.

At present, Hungarians can use their SZÉP card balances to pay for catering, commercial accommodations, and recreational services.

SZÉP card spending at commercial accommodations came to HUF 27.8 billion in January-October, the latest data from the Central Statistical Office (KSH) show.