The Hungarian economy is on a new development path after coping successfully with challenges raised by national economic transition and the increasing globalization in the first half of the 1990s. Competitiveness has become a key issue for both macroeconomic analysts and for decision makers in business and government. Recognition of the above in 1995 led the Budapest University of Economic Sciences to start a research program titled In Global Competition - Microeconomic Factors of Competitiveness of the Hungarian Economy. A focal element of the research program was an opinion survey. The analysis of the database of two surveys makes it possible to provide an overview of the changes in the behavior, performance and selected operational fields of Hungarian companies between 1995 and 1999. The main findings of this analysis are published in this book. Besides the description of the Hungarian developments, the authors provide some more general conclusions for those interested in micro and

This book describes the opening of the Hungarian economy from the early This book describes the opening of the Hungarian economy from the early1980s to the current transition. It analyses the management of external debt and international competitiveness, and shows that the dismal economic performance of the country was only partially homemade. Assurances by the international financial community - that uninterrupted debt service would guarantee access to international capital markets - as well as protectionist western trade practices contributed considerably to Hungary's difficulties in credit management and export performance.

This 2004 edition of OECD's periodic economic review of Hungary's economy includes special features on structural policy, on competition policy and on sustainable developement.

Hungary's economic performance improved dramatically in the second half of the 1990s as a result of strong stabilization measures and deep structural reforms. During this period, Hungary was able to move from economic stagnation to strong growth, while also dramatically improving its external accounts. This report is composed of two parts. Part 1 is summary report with the main findings and conclusions. Part 2 is the main report that provides an analysis and assessment of the macroeconomic framework, the medium-term fiscal stance, and selected sectors and markets of the Hungarian economy. Hungary is regarded as a top performer among transitional countries, and one of the strongest candidates for accession to the European Union (EU). The country needs to refine the regulatory and institutional framework in structural areas, so as to achieve full compliance with EU directives and ensure a smooth and successful entry into the single EU market. The report concludes that the challenge facing Hungary today is consolidate stabilization gains and finalize the structural reforms to ensure that the economy remains competitive and that income is placed on a rapid and sustainable convergence path with the EU average.