Archive · 21 Jul 2026
Hungary investigates BYD deal after ex-minister joins firm
Hungary's government is investigating a big investment by a Chinese car company called BYD.
The former foreign minister, Péter Szijjártó, who helped BYD get money and support from the government, recently left his job to work for BYD.
Some people think this is a conflict of interest.
The government wants to check if everything was done fairly.
BYD is planning to build a factory and headquarters in Hungary, but some people are worried about the environment and the economy.
Szijjártó also had close ties with Russia, which caused some controversy.
Hungary's government is investigating a large investment by Chinese automaker BYD.
Former foreign minister Péter Szijjártó resigned to join BYD, raising conflict of interest concerns.
Szijjártó facilitated substantial government subsidies and support to BYD while in office.
BYD plans to open its first European factory and headquarters in Hungary, receiving significant government assistance.
Local residents and environmentalists protest over environmental and economic concerns related to Chinese investments.
- Who
- Hungary's government, Péter Szijjártó, BYD
- What
- Investigation into a large foreign investment by BYD and potential conflict of interest involving Szijjártó.
- When
- Investigation announced on Monday.
- Where
- Hungary
- Why
- To examine decisions, negotiations, and state commitments related to BYD's investment and potential conflict of interest.
Government and Critics
Péter Szijjártó and BYD
Conflict of Interest
Government and Critics
The government and critics accuse Szijjártó of conflict of interest due to his role in facilitating subsidies and support for BYD while in office.
Péter Szijjártó and BYD
Szijjártó has not responded to the allegations and has described his new job as a prestigious opportunity.
Environmental and Economic Impact
Government and Critics
Local residents, environmentalists, and opposition politicians protest the environmental and economic impact of Chinese investments in Hungary.
Péter Szijjártó and BYD
BYD and Szijjártó have not publicly addressed these concerns.
- Investigation Announced
- Hungary's government announced an investigation into a large foreign investment by Chinese automaker BYD.
- Former Foreign Minister
- Péter Szijjártó resigned from Parliament to take an executive position at BYD.
- Subsidies and Support
- Szijjártó facilitated substantial government subsidies and support to BYD while in office.
- BYD's Investments
- BYD announced plans to open its first European factory in Hungary and locate its European headquarters in Budapest.
- Government Assistance
- BYD received 20 billion forints ($63.7 million) in government assistance.
- Environmental Concerns
- Local residents and environmentalists protest over fears of environmental impact and economic undermining.
- Russian Relations
- Szijjártó maintained close relations with Russia and frequently traveled to Moscow to negotiate agreements.