The Hungarian Competition Authority (GVH) has increased the maximum fine that can be imposed on violating companies, from 10% to 15% of the previous year's net revenue, effective from August 1, 2024. While the primary goal of the GVH is not fines, the rise in potential financial penalties serves as a significant deterrent.

In 2023, the GVH Competition Council imposed fines totaling 2.2 billion forints on 97 companies. By August 2024, the total amount of competition fines imposed this year had already exceeded 2 billion forints.

The specific fine amount is calculated by the GVH Competition Council within the framework provided by competition law and penalty guidelines, taking into account all circumstances of the case. The maximum fine that can be imposed is determined by the violating company's – even at a group level – previous year's net revenue.

To enhance the deterrent effect of violations, the maximum fine that can be imposed on companies was raised from 10% to 13% of the previous year's net revenue on September 1, 2023.

Since then, the GVH Competition Council has imposed fines in several cases, applying the higher 13% maximum fine ceiling in three cases. The fines imposed in these cases approached 700 million forints. Notably, a record fine was imposed on a global online accommodation booking platform for failing to fully comply with the authority's earlier obligations.

As of August 1, 2024, the maximum fine that can be imposed in individual cases has increased again, from 13% to 15% of the previous year's net revenue. This means that a company could be liable for up to 15% of its previous year's net revenue in case of a serious violation.

The GVH aims to protect consumers effectively and actively support compliant businesses. While fines are not the primary goal, the national competition authority offers various cooperation opportunities to companies, and through active cooperation during proceedings, the fine amount can be reduced. Additionally, the GVH provides informational materials to assist businesses in preventing violations.