These are the major changes in Hungary in 2024

The dawn of the new year brings significant changes for Hungary in 2024. Brace yourselves both for motorway vignette price hikes and changes to PET bottle regulations. However, we are also here to break some sweet news regarding an all time favourite Hungarian snack.

What’s new in 2024?

Effective 1 January, the government has greenlit a substantial 32.2% increase in the average salary of teachers. Trainee teachers will experience a raise to HUF 528,000 (EUR 1,385), up from HUF 400,000 (EUR 1,050) in 2023. The specifics, be they gross or net, remain elusive, yet it is assured that no teacher shall receive less than this sum. As per the provision, the enhanced salaries will be disbursed in February, extending the benefit to maintainers of state, church and private institutions.

Túró rudi gets cheaper

While not a headline-stealer, the uplifting news of a reduction in the price of Hungary’s cherished túró rudi is bound to bring joy to many. The government has revised the annex to the VAT Act, which lists products subjected to the 18% VAT rate. This means that the VAT rate for dessert cheese products, including túró rudi, will drop from 27% to 18% from January, which could lead to a significant reduction in the price of this tasty treat.

What about all that plastic?

Originally slated for 1 January, the plan envisioned the return of all bottled beverages—glass, metal and plastic—with a redemption label. A redemption fee of HUF 50 (EUR 0.13) will be charged at sale and reimbursed to the customer upon return.

The EU dictates a 90% take-back rate for PET bottles by 2029, but Hungary has postponed requiring producers to label packaging with return codes until 1 July, economx.hu reports.

Bumpy ride for motorists

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