On June 4, AmCham launched its new ESG Seminar Series with an introductory session designed to lay the groundwork for future discussions. The session opened with a presentation by Péter Lenkey, ESG professional consultant at the Hungarian Economic Development Agency, who outlined key regulatory developments and national ESG priorities. He was later joined by Nóra Óváry-Papp (counsel at law firm Baker McKenzie), Ákos Veisz (managing partner, BDO Hungary ESG Advisory), and József Bőhm (chair of AmCham’s Sustainable Growth Committee), who moderated the roundtable discussion. Experts provided insights into the evolving ESG landscape, shared perspectives on long-term value creation, and examined the differences in ESG integration between SMEs and multinational corporations. The conversation also highlighted emerging trends and offered practical guidance for companies at different stages of their ESG journey.
On May 27, the DUIHK held the third event in its Upskilling in Finance series at Audi Hungaria’s HQ in Győr. The series began in 2023 as an initiative of the finance executives of four major member companies of the chamber: Magyar Telekom, Audi Hungaria, B. Braun and PwC. These companies joined forces with the aim of better preparing employees in finance organizations for the increased challenges they face. This final session focused on enhancing employees’ general knowledge of ESG. A total of nine companies set up 12 booths to share their insights at a marketplace-style workshop covering ESG laws, regulatory expectations, best practices and hands-on experience. Barbara Zollmann, CEO of DUIHK, and Achim Grewe, CFO of Audi Hungaria, welcomed our guests. Five interactive sessions followed in 30-minute rotations, enabling in-depth discussions and knowledge exchange between participants and exhibitors. Among the exhibitors was the German-Hungarian Knowledge Center (DUWZ), which provided a three-day seminar on Hungary’s evolving ESG regulations, reporting obligations and the implementation of ESG rules within companies. Participants also enjoyed a guided tour of Audi’s impressive engine manufacturing facility, the perfect way to end an inspiring day dedicated to future-proofing finance through shared learning and innovation.
Swisscham is delighted to welcome its newly elected board members and looks forward to working together to strengthen its community further, promote Swiss-Hungarian business cooperation, and develop meaningful initiatives for its members.
The CCCH is set to host its beloved Canada Day celebration in July, promising a relaxed summer evening filled with Canadian flavors, friendly faces, and festive spirit. This year’s event will mark 158 years since the signing of the Constitution Act of 1867 and the founding moment of modern Canada. Attendees can look forward to a truly Canadian menu, including juicy burgers, refreshing craft beers, and irresistible donuts from The Box Donut & More. Whether you’re a CCCH member, a Canadian living abroad, or simply a fan of Canadian culture, this celebration is the perfect chance to come together and toast the nation’s birthday. The event is open to the international community and offers an excellent opportunity for networking, socializing, and enjoying the best of Canadian hospitality in Budapest. Prior registration is required; space is limited, so early sign-up is encouraged. • When: Tuesday, July 1, 6-10 p.m. • Where: Pasarét Bisztró, Pasaréti út 100, 1026 Budapest • Fee: Members, HUF 21,463; non-members HUF 27,813.
The CCCH once again delivered an unforgettable evening on June 4 as it hosted the 12th Canadian BBQ Dinner at the scenic Öbölház on Kopaszi-gát. The event brought together around 100 guests, including leading business figures, diplomats and government representatives, for a relaxed and elegant evening of culinary delights and professional networking. Clear skies and warm weather set the stage for a picturesque riverside gathering. Guests enjoyed a rich menu featuring Canadian salmon, bison, and an open cocktail bar with premium non-alcoholic options, as well as gourmet tastings of chocolate and ice cream. Jazz music created a smooth, atmospheric backdrop as attendees sipped drinks, exchanged business cards, and tested their luck in an exciting raffle. With a shuttle service making the event easily accessible, every detail was tailored for comfort and elegance. The Canadian BBQ has become one of the most anticipated occasions on the CCCH calendar, celebrating not only Canadian cuisine and culture but also strengthening ties across Hungary’s business and diplomatic communities.
Belgabiz celebrated its 10th anniversary on June 5 with a special evening at the Residence of the Belgian Embassy in Budapest. The event brought together current and former members, along with key partners such as representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the Hungarian Investment Promotion Agency, to mark this milestone and reflect on the journey so far. Guests were welcomed by chamber president Jim Bauters; Jeroen Vergeylen, Ambassador of Belgium to Hungary; as well as the regional economic and investment representatives of Flanders and Wallonia, Zsolt Tarjáni and Jean-Philippe Schklar. The event featured live guitar music by László Szegedi, a buffet dinner, and an excellent opportunity to catch up and connect. A key part of the evening was the award ceremony, sponsored by K&H, where we recognized three outstanding members for their long-standing support and contributions: Loyalty Award: János Tamáska (Belgaco – Belga Sörmester); Committed Partnership Award: Györgyi Viszmeg (Viszmeg Law Firm); and Creative Contributor Award: Sam Vangerven (Stardex). A short video retrospective looked back at key moments from the past 10 years, a reminder of how far the Belgiam business community has come and how many meaningful and enjoyable moments it has shared.
The annual Dutcham Orange Dinner at the Crowne Plaza Budapest on May 28 provided a unique opportunity to celebrate the Dutch business community in Hungary and enjoy authentic Dutch, Indonesian and Caribbean culinary delights. Dutcham truly appreciates the support of the Embassy of the Netherlands in Hungary, thanks its members and partners for celebrating with it, the sponsors for the valuable raffle gifts and Fruzsina Vincze for the live entertainment.
On June 25, the Italian Cultural Institute in Budapest will host a conference titled “3DMeat: An Attack on Traditional Food,” organized with the support of the CCIU. The event will center on a crucial theme: the contrast between traditional Italian food culture, particularly the Mediterranean Diet, and emerging food alternatives, which often promote heavily processed or even 3D-printed products, lacking the authenticity and nutritional integrity of natural foods. The conference will explore the many benefits of the Mediterranean Diet, encourage discussion on future food challenges, and emphasize the value of conscious, natural choices for improved quality of life. Attendees will be able to compare Italian and Hungarian organic products and examine current trends shaping the global food industry. The day will begin with welcome remarks from Italian institutional representatives in Budapest, followed by expert-led panels featuring officials from the agriculture ministries of Italy and Hungary, with contributions from the Hungarian Chamber of Agriculture and key figures from the Italian-Hungarian agro-food sector. Scholars will share their insights on how the Mediterranean lifestyle supports the prevention of conditions such as diabetes, obesity, and high cholesterol. The event is also designed to strengthen commercial ties between Hungarian importers and Italian food producers. A dedicated tasting area will offer regional Italian specialties. Live opera performances by tenor Giuseppe Gambi and soprano Laura Migliaccio will create a refined and engaging atmosphere.
This article was first published in the Budapest Business Journal print issue of June 16, 2025.
Producing journalism that is worthy of the name is a costly business. For over 30 years, the publishers, editors and reporters of the Budapest Business Journal have striven to bring you business news that works, information that you can trust, that is factual, accurate and presented without fear or favor.Newspaper organizations across the globe have struggled to find a business model that allows them to continue to excel, without compromising their ability to perform. Most recently, some have experimented with the idea of involving their most important stakeholders, their readers.
We would like to offer that same opportunity to our readers. We would like to invite you to help us deliver the quality business journalism you require. Hit our Support the BBJ button and you can choose the how much and how often you send us your contributions.
