Post by Judit Zolnay Dr. MBA

As of today, Kecskemét has become one of the most important hubs in the Mercedes-Benz AG global production network: it is now home to the company’s second-largest manufacturing plant worldwide. This is a clear confirmation of Hungary’s strategic role in the present and the future of the automotive industry. It was an honor to attend the inauguration of the new production facilities together with the Prime Minister, Minister Istvan Kapitany , and the global leadership Ola Källenius Joerg Burzer Christian Dickert Michael Schiebe. As State Secretary for Foreign Trade, I reinforced my belief today that the true value of an investment cannot be measured by capital alone. A strategic investment brings three things together: capital, knowledge, and partnership. #Capital creates new capacity and jobs. #Knowledge brings cutting-edge technology, innovation, and higher value-added production. #Partnerships build long-term trust among businesses, universities, skilled professionals, and the government. In his speech, the Prime Minister recalled the legacy of Béla Barényi, the Hungarian engineer whose pioneering work in automotive safety was integral to Mercedes-Benz’s success. It was a timely reminder that Hungarian engineering excellence has been contributing to the global automotive industry for generations. Today, that same spirit lives on in Kecskemét, where the next generation of electric, digital, and intelligent vehicles will be built. This nearly €1 billion investment sends a strong message: Hungary is a competitive, reliable partner, capable of attracting and hosting the world’s most advanced businesses. This is something we can all be proud of! Keep on partnering!