The Hungarian Competition Authority (GVH) has reported imposing fines exceeding 4.2 billion HUF in 2024, as stated by its president, Csaba Balázs Rigó, in an end-of-year interview with Magyar Nemzet. The discussion highlighted various ongoing investigations, including a railway procurement cartel, the impacts of the online price monitoring tool, and cases involving major companies like Temu, Microsoft, and Spar.

Rigó emphasized the importance of legal compliance in their investigations, particularly regarding the railway cartel, which was identified through a thorough fact-finding process. He noted that such clear violations are rare and that the GVH acts based on evidence and legal standards.

Regarding single-bid public procurements, Rigó expressed optimism about further reducing their occurrence and mentioned that proposals have been made to address this issue. He also stressed the necessity of ensuring that EU funds reach the Hungarian budget effectively.

The online price monitoring tool has reportedly increased price transparency among major retail chains, contributing to a reduction in food inflation. Rigó highlighted that the Hungarian population saved approximately 20 billion HUF within three months due to the tool's price-reducing effects.

On the topic of Spar, Rigó noted that the chain was previously found to have abused its market power to the detriment of local suppliers. The GVH had mandated Spar to fulfill commitments worth 1.7 billion HUF, with an evaluation of compliance expected in the first half of the following year.

Investigations into global tech giants like Temu and Microsoft are ongoing, with Rigó asserting that the GVH has gained recognition and seriousness in its regulatory role over the past years.

Lastly, Rigó discussed the analysis of artificial intelligence's impact on market competition, indicating a need for urgent action and proposing measures to enhance competitiveness and support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).