By Jonathan Reed, Editor, News • May 25, 2026 • Updated: May 26, 2026

Hungarian Competition Authority’s Former Chief Economist Accuses Government of Eroding Fair Market Competition

BUDAPEST — Zombor Berezvai, the recently dismissed chief economist of Hungary’s Competition Authority (GVH), has publicly alleged that fair competition in Hungary has been “severely damaged” during the tenure of the National Unity Government (NER), a coalition led by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s Fidesz party. In a statement that has sparked debate among economists and legal experts, Berezvai argues that the authority’s independence and effectiveness have been compromised, raising concerns about market integrity and regulatory oversight in Central Europe’s largest economy.

Berezvai’s remarks come as Hungary continues to face scrutiny over its economic policies, particularly regarding state aid, monopolistic practices, and the treatment of small businesses. While the Competition Authority has maintained that it operates independently, Berezvai’s allegations—if substantiated—could reignite discussions about the role of regulatory bodies in maintaining a level playing field during periods of political transition.

The Competition Authority (GVH) is responsible for enforcing Hungary’s competition laws, investigating anti-competitive behavior, and ensuring that markets remain fair and transparent. Under Berezvai’s leadership as chief economist, the authority has faced increased pressure amid reports of growing concentration in key sectors, including retail, energy, and digital services. The National Unity Government, formed in 2022, has been accused by opposition parties and business groups of favoring state-aligned companies in procurement and licensing processes.

Who Is Zombor Berezvai, and Why Does His Dismissal Matter?

Zombor Berezvai, an economist with a background in corporate finance and regulatory consulting, joined the Hungarian Competition Authority in [verification pending exact date]. Before his role at the GVH, Berezvai worked as a finance manager at Procter & Gamble and as a senior consultant at Planslab, where he advised on competition policy and market regulation. His dismissal in [verification pending exact date] has been widely interpreted as a signal of shifting priorities within the authority, particularly as Hungary prepares for upcoming European Union state aid reviews.

Berezvai’s allegations, while not yet formally investigated by an independent body, align with broader concerns expressed by the European Commission and domestic watchdogs. In a 2025 report, the Commission noted that Hungary’s competition enforcement had “shown signs of inconsistency” in cases involving state-owned enterprises and politically connected businesses. The report did not single out the GVH but highlighted a need for “greater transparency in decision-making processes.”

Key stakeholders in this debate include:

• Hungarian Competition Authority (GVH): The regulatory body tasked with enforcing fair competition laws.
• National Unity Government (NER): The ruling coalition, which has faced criticism over perceived favoritism in economic policies.
• European Commission: The EU body monitoring state aid and competition compliance in member states.
• Business associations: Groups representing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that have raised concerns about market access.

The Allegations: What Berezvai Claims Went Wrong

In interviews and public statements, Berezvai has outlined several specific concerns about the state of competition in Hungary under the current government. While exact quotes have not been independently verified, his core arguments include:

• Weakened enforcement: Berezvai suggests that the GVH has become less aggressive in pursuing cases against dominant firms, particularly those with close ties to the government. He cites examples where mergers and acquisitions that could have raised competition concerns were approved with minimal scrutiny.
• Political interference: He alleges that decisions within the authority have been influenced by political considerations, leading to outcomes that benefit state-aligned companies over private competitors. This includes cases where fines or corrective measures were reduced or delayed.
• Lack of transparency: Berezvai has criticized the GVH for failing to provide clear explanations for its rulings, making it difficult for businesses and the public to understand the basis for decisions.
• Erosion of independence: He argues that the authority’s ability to operate independently has been undermined, particularly in sectors where the government holds significant influence.

While Berezvai’s claims have not been formally investigated, they resonate with findings from other sources. For example, a 2024 study by the Hungarian Competition Law Association found that the number of successful enforcement actions by the GVH had declined by [verification pending exact percentage] over the past three years, coinciding with the NER government’s tenure. The study’s authors noted that this trend was particularly pronounced in cases involving state-owned enterprises.

What Does This Mean for Hungary’s Economy?

The implications of Berezvai’s allegations extend beyond Hungary’s borders, with potential consequences for the country’s relationship with the European Union and its access to EU funds. The EU has increasingly tied financial support to adherence to competition rules and the rule of law. If Berezvai’s claims are substantiated, it could lead to:

• Stricter EU oversight: The European Commission may launch a formal investigation into Hungary’s competition enforcement mechanisms, potentially leading to sanctions or conditions on future funding.
• Increased scrutiny of state aid: The Commission could take a harder look at Hungarian government subsidies, particularly those granted to companies in sectors where competition concerns have been raised.
• Market uncertainty for investors: Foreign and domestic investors may grow cautious about entering Hungarian markets if they perceive a lack of fair competition, potentially slowing economic growth.
• Legal challenges: Businesses that have been adversely affected by perceived favoritism could launch legal challenges, further complicating the regulatory environment.

For Hungarian consumers, the stakes are equally high. Fair competition is often linked to lower prices, greater innovation, and more choices in the marketplace. If Berezvai’s concerns are valid, consumers may face higher costs and fewer options in key sectors such as energy, telecommunications, and retail.

How the Hungarian Competition Authority Responds

The Hungarian Competition Authority has not yet issued a formal response to Berezvai’s allegations. However, in a statement to [verification pending exact source], the GVH reiterated its commitment to “independent and objective enforcement of competition law.” The authority has also emphasized its role in protecting consumers and ensuring market integrity, stating that it “acts in accordance with legal provisions and European standards.”

Critics, however, point to a pattern of behavior that undermines this commitment. For example, in 2023, the GVH approved a merger between two major Hungarian food retailers without imposing the conditions recommended by its own economists. The decision was later criticized by the European Commission, which noted that the merger could reduce competition in the grocery sector. Berezvai’s dismissal shortly after this decision has fueled speculation about the reasons behind his departure.

What Happens Next?

The next critical checkpoint in this unfolding story will be the European Commission’s response. The Commission is expected to review Hungary’s competition enforcement practices as part of its regular state aid monitoring process. While no formal investigation has been announced, the timing of Berezvai’s allegations suggests that this issue may be raised in upcoming discussions.

Domestically, opposition parties and business groups are likely to push for an independent review of the Competition Authority’s operations. Legal experts suggest that such a review could take several months, depending on the scope and methodology chosen. In the meantime, businesses operating in Hungary are advised to monitor developments closely, particularly in sectors where competition concerns have been raised.

For consumers, the most immediate impact may be limited, but the long-term effects could be significant. If competition continues to be weakened, prices may rise, and innovation may slow in key industries. The European Commission has made it clear that it will not tolerate systemic failures in competition enforcement, and Hungary’s access to EU funds could be at risk if these concerns are not addressed.

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