The Hungarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MKIK) is strengthening its focus on artificial intelligence (AI) as a key driver of economic growth. MKIK President Elek Nagy recently held discussions with László Palkovics, the government commissioner responsible for AI development, to explore opportunities for AI adoption in business and industry, the chamber announced on Monday.
During the meeting, Elek Nagy underscored AI’s crucial role in developing a knowledge-based economy. He noted that businesses could significantly increase efficiency and generate higher value-added products by implementing AI solutions. László Palkovics emphasized the need for simplified AI solutions tailored to businesses. He also highlighted Hungary’s interest in attracting major technology companies and fostering collaborations that leverage local expertise.
Both parties agreed that AI is essential for boosting competitiveness. To facilitate its adoption, they plan to organize training programmes and information campaigns to familiarize businesses with emerging technologies. The meeting also included László György, government commissioner for economic strategy and the Let’s Teach for Hungary programme. The MKIK and the Hungarian government intend to deepen their cooperation in AI development, aiming to strengthen the country’s innovation capabilities and economic resilience.
In a separate meeting, László Palkovics met with CEO of Rheinmetall Hungary Paul Walf to discuss AI-driven advancements in the defence sector.
Hungary’s defence industry has been undergoing modernization for several years, with strategic upgrades initiated well before the outbreak of the war in Ukraine. The discussions acknowledged the significant financial commitments across Europe—particularly in Germany—towards defence procurement, which could reshape Hungary’s role in the sector. By optimizing domestic production capacity and focusing on higher efficiency, Hungary aims to increase national income and strengthen its economic position.
AI applications are expected to play a key role in improving manufacturing processes and enhancing the functionality of military technologies. Hungary is well-positioned for this shift, with advanced factories, expanding research and development capacities, and a growing network of suppliers.
As part of the initiative, industry leaders and government representatives agreed to intensify AI research efforts by partnering with Hungarian universities and research institutes. The Budapest University of Technology and Economics, the University of Pannonia, and the HUN-REN Institute for Computer Science and Control will take on new AI-driven projects to support industrial and defence-related innovations.
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