Monday, September 15, 2025

Hungary’s Inflation Control: Are Price Caps on Groceries Going to Create Shortages?

In response to the spiraling inflation brought about by the Ukrainian war, the Hungarian government implemented official price controls on essential food items in February 2022, extending the provision several times.

As the story unfolded, the price freeze was reported to be phased out by the end of July 2023, given the significant improvement in inflation figures. However, the government’s move raised concerns that staple food prices would skyrocket starting in August, so officials announced that mandatory promotions would remain in place to stave off such price increases.

These promotions weren’t merely a symbolic gesture, though; they mandated that grocery stores sell at least one product at a discount of more than 15 percent for a minimum of a week. Retailers were also obliged to maintain ample quantities of these discounted products on the shelves, including meat and dairy products, fats, bread, vegetables and fruit.

So, how is that panning out for Hungary, thus far? As journalist Holger Zschaepitz points out, likely not very well. The complications from attempting to reign in inflation via price ceilings usually come in the form of shortages, which, in turn, eventually transition into even higher prices at grocery stores.

Information for this briefing was found via the sources mentioned within the article. The author has no securities or affiliations related to this organization. Not a recommendation to buy or sell. Always do additional research and consult a professional before purchasing a security. The author holds no licenses.

Video Articles

New Found Gold: The Strategic Maritime Resources Purchase

Amex Exploration: Revised Perron PEA Has INSANE Economics

Aris Mining: The Multi Billion Dollar Soto Norte PFS

Recommended

Northern Superior Expands Philibert With 350 Metre Step Out Testing 1.10 g/t Gold Over 25.5 Metres

Goliath Resources Hits 18.58 g/t Gold Over 5.00 Metres At Surebet

Related News

Is It Becoming Socially Acceptable to Steal From Price-Gouging Grocery Stores?

A recent increase in social media users announcing that they have been shoplifting from Canadian...

Tuesday, January 17, 2023, 07:29:00 AM

Loblaw’s Report Sees Food Prices Soar Beyond Inflation

Loblaw Companies Ltd. (TSX: L) has published its January Food Inflation report, highlighting persistent challenges...

Tuesday, January 21, 2025, 10:07:00 AM

Applebee’s Executive Gets Flak After Excitedly Outlining How To Take Advantage Of The Poor In An Email

Earlier this month, Wayne Pankratz, an executive director of operations for American Franchise Capital, which...

Thursday, March 31, 2022, 04:33:00 PM

Avian Flu Sends Egg Prices Soaring Ahead of Easter Holiday

The highly transmittable avian flu has made a re-appearance in the US— at the worst...

Wednesday, April 6, 2022, 11:27:00 AM

Declining US Grain Supplies Send Commodity Prices Skyrocketing

It appears that a second commodity boom may be on the horizon, as US crop...

Thursday, January 14, 2021, 10:53:00 AM