EU-partnerships

Hungary

Research | 12 March 2026

HU is a net exporter of goods with a surplus of €2.6bn in 2025, and is an important supplier of energy resources in Ukraine

Services trade is stable, and Hungary remains a net exporter, supporting trade routes between Ukraine and the EU

Ukrainians entered the EU through the UA-HU border during 2022-2024

UA, as a part of the automotive cluster, exports both electrical components and processing services

Centre for Economic Strategy (CES), an independent Ukrainian think tank that analyzes key public policies and promotes support for reforms.

With donor support, CES has launched a series of studies on trade relations between Ukraine and the European Union countries.

Free movements of goods and services

HU exports to UA mainly natural gas, fuel and electricity, electrical machinery, pharma and vehicles

UA exports to HU electrical machinery and equipment as part of the automotive cluster, as well as sugar, confectionery, cereals, oilseeds, and wood

HU is a net exporter of services, with a surplus of €236 mln in 2024, focusing on transport, logistics, and travel services

UA exported processing and transport services. Transport services have more than doubled on both sides since 2021

Pre war:

15k

Ukrainians in Hungary in 2021

Post-2022:

43k

late-2025, largely women and minors, with man flow in 2024-2025

157k

ethnic Hungarians concentrated in Zakarpattia, reported by UA in 2001

8.9k

HU-language student numbers (2024/25)

Cross-border logistics and transportation will benefit foreign trade and the economic development of both countries.
HU’s complete rejection of russian oil in favour of Adria/JANAF capacity will increase demand for HU fuel from UA.
Supply chains deepening between firms in the automotive industry, agrifood, construction materials, pharma and financial services will require additional investments amid EU standards and rules.