Hungarian small and medium-sized enterprises are calling for more predictable regulation, faster public administration, simpler taxation and cleaner competition, according to a new white paper compiled by MVÜK from the experience of nearly 150 company executives.
The document argues that SMEs are not asking for a larger state, but for a more effective one capable of providing stable rules, functioning administration, accessible financing and meaningful professional consultation before major regulatory changes.
MVÜK has submitted the white paper to the Ministry of Economy and Energy. The initiative was encouraged by a June visit to MVÜK by István Kapitány, according to the organisation.
Predictability tops the list
The central message of the white paper is that uncertainty has a direct economic cost. Participating business leaders said unpredictable financing, energy, regulatory and labour-market conditions can delay hiring, investment, borrowing and technology upgrades.
Their proposals therefore include a clearer long-term economic policy framework, professional consultation ahead of significant legislative changes, lower administrative burdens, faster public procedures and a more predictable competitive environment.
In public procurement and grant programmes, the white paper calls for greater weight to be given not only to the lowest price, but also to quality, reliability, employment and the amount of Hungarian or European value added created by suppliers.
SMEs also make commitments
The document is structured as a two-way proposal rather than a list of demands. Participating SMEs say they are prepared to commit to compliant taxation, legal employment, fulfilling contractual obligations and retaining employees over the longer term.
If operating conditions become more predictable, companies say they would seek to reinvest resources into wages, training, digitalisation, technology, innovation, energy efficiency and productivity improvements.
The white paper also highlights stronger domestic and European supplier relationships, development of proprietary products and brands, and greater participation in training younger workers and knowledge-sharing.
MVÜK frames the paper as a partnership offer
Csaba Iglódi, founder and head of the OnlyCEO club and co-owner of MVÜK, described the document as both a proposal package and a set of commitments from Hungarian SMEs. He said the objective was to define not only what companies expect from the state, but also what businesses can contribute in return.
