Hungary opens up to Chinese tech despite protests

Hungary's Ambitious Drive towards Becoming a Global EV Battery Manufacturing Hub Hungary, a country known for its rich history and stunning architecture, is now setting its sights on a new ambition—to become a world power in manufacturing electric vehicle (EV) batteries. Despite some reservations from locals, Hungary is opening its doors to Chinese tech companies to help achieve this goal. The Hungarian government has been actively courting Chinese companies specializing in EV battery production, despite facing protests from its own citizens. Hungary's abundance of skilled labor, central European location, and history of strong ties with China have made it an appealing destination for these ambitious projects. The expansion of the EV industry in Hungary started in 2016 when South Korean company SK Innovation announced plans to build a battery factory in the country. This decision was followed by commitments from other major players in the industry, including Germany's BMW, which also chose Hungary as the location for its EV battery production plant. The Hungarian government's open attitude towards Chinese tech companies has further solidified the country's position as an attractive investment destination. This has drawn criticism from locals who express concerns over the potential influence China may gain through these partnerships. Hungary's aim to become a global leader in EV battery manufacturing is primarily driven by the country's desire to diversify its economy and reduce its dependence on the automotive industry. As the world shifts towards sustainable transportation, the demand for EVs and their components, such as batteries, is expected to skyrocket. Hungary wants to position itself