Hungary Allocates Additional National Support for Dairy Farmers Amid Low Prices

The Hungarian Minister of Agriculture, István Nagy, has declared that the government will provide an additional HUF 2.43 billion (approximately EUR 6.39 million) in national subsidies to dairy producers. This aid aims to support farmers suffering from low milk purchase prices, which have caused significant income losses.

Minister Nagy highlighted that this financial support is a response to the ongoing milk market crisis impacting the European Union, including Hungary. The crisis has been exacerbated by overproduction and the EU–China trade conflict, with China imposing tariffs on EU dairy products. Although Hungary's milk exports to China are limited, these tariffs have indirectly affected domestic prices.

The Ministry of Agriculture has expedited the arrival of both EU and domestic subsidies for the affected farmers. Approximately 2,300 dairy farmers will benefit from this extraordinary aid, which is intended to partially compensate for their losses and ensure the continued operation of livestock farms until market conditions improve.

Hungary has also raised the issue of the milk market situation at the EU Agriculture and Fisheries Council, prompting the European Commission to monitor the sector closely. The Ministry, in collaboration with other government bodies, is considering further interventions to support the dairy industry.

Minister Nagy reiterated the government's commitment to the dairy sector, emphasizing its strategic importance for domestic food security and rural employment. The national subsidies will be disbursed by the Hungarian State Treasury in the near future.