The Hungarian Competition Authority (GVH) has launched the second season of the Hungarian Compliance Academy (MCA) with a focus on the importance of competition law compliance for businesses. The fifth event of this series highlighted the close relationship between regulated activities and consumer protection, with key speakers emphasizing the positive impact of effective consumer protection on economic growth.

Bánki Erik, the chairman of the Economic Committee of the National Assembly, pointed out that a strong consumer protection system ensures fair treatment for all consumers, regardless of their background. He noted that effective consumer protection can significantly boost consumer spending, which is crucial for economic growth.

Rigó Csaba Balázs, president of the GVH, reiterated the commitment to protecting vulnerable consumers, who are often targets of violations related to regulated activities. He emphasized that the collaboration between the GVH and the Regulatory Authority for Regulated Activities (SZTFH) is essential in safeguarding these consumers.

The MCA aims to enhance corporate compliance, strengthen market competition, and improve economic performance. The first season of the conference series covered various topics, including the role of compliance in competitiveness and the relationship between administrative adjudication and competition law.

During the event, participants discussed the connections between regulated activities and consumer protection, highlighting the need for effective cooperation between the two authorities. Vulnerable consumer groups, such as the elderly, sick, children, and those susceptible to gambling or addiction, were identified as key focus areas.

The GVH and SZTFH have collaborated on several occasions to protect Hungarian consumers, including actions against illegal sales of imitation smoking devices and blocking illegal online gambling sites. The next MCA event is scheduled for March 27, 2025, focusing on the intersections of public procurement and competition law.