The EU launched a new infringement procedure against Hungary due to protectionist measures

RockedBuzz
By RockedBuzz 2 Min Read

Energy export restrictions

The committee’s criticism is directed at the fact that the Hungarian measures introduced prior notification systems that give the authorities the opportunity to prevent the export of energy carriers. According to the Commission, these measures concern exports in the internal market with quantitative restrictions have the same effect.

Hungary also breached the standstill period under Directive (EU) 2015/1535 on Single Market Transparency by adopting these measures after notification without would have provided an opportunity other Member States and the Commission to provide feedback.

Also, about Hungary restriction also applied to exports to third countries it also affects trade with these third countries. Hungary has two months at its disposal to take the measures deemed necessary based on the reasoned opinion. If this is not done, the Commission may decide to file a lawsuit against Hungary at the Court of Justice of the European Union.

Building materials

Another decision of the Commission is to summon Hungary to the Court of Justice of the European Union rules introducing fixed prices for building materials (sand, gravel, cement).payable in case of non-compliance with the fixed prices heavy penalty taxesas well as due to production obligations for building materials and construction raw materials.

The Commission believes that these national measures are neither justified nor proportionate, therefore comply with the freedom of establishment. In addition, on the basis of the EU directive on the transparency of the single market, the member states are obliged to notify the measure establishing fixed prices and coercive fines, which did not happen either.

Cover image: Shutterstock

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