US-owned chemicals company Huntsman Corporation has completed a major HUF 16.5 billion capacity expansion at its facility in Pétfürdő, further strengthening Hungary’s role in international industrial supply chains.
The investment, officially inaugurated on 18 March 2026, was supported by the Hungarian government with HUF 1.2 billion and has increased the plant’s production capacity by 40 percent, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Expanding Production and Technology
As part of the project, Huntsman added 10,000 square metres of new production space and installed modern equipment to improve efficiency and output.
The expansion is expected to enhance the plant’s ability to meet growing demand in global markets, where chemical products play a critical role in industries ranging from manufacturing and construction to automotive and consumer goods.
The investment also reflects ongoing efforts within the chemicals sector to modernise production processes and integrate advanced technologies.
Securing Jobs and Skills
The development has helped safeguard around 150 jobs at the Pétfürdő facility, ensuring continued employment in the region.
Government officials emphasised the importance of not only attracting new investment but also maintaining existing industrial jobs, particularly in sectors that require specialised skills and technical expertise.
The plant’s workforce also contributes to research and development (R&D) activities, highlighting the growing role of Hungary not just as a production base, but also as a centre for innovation within multinational companies.
Export-Oriented Operations
Production at the Pétfürdő site is largely destined for international markets, underlining Hungary’s integration into global industrial supply chains.
Export-oriented manufacturing remains a key pillar of the Hungarian economy, with companies like Huntsman supplying products to customers across Europe and beyond.
The expansion is expected to strengthen the company’s export capacity while reinforcing Hungary’s position as a competitive manufacturing location.
US Investment in Hungary
The project also reflects the continued presence of US-owned companies in Hungary.
According to government data, American firms represent the third-largest investor group in the country, contributing significantly to employment, technology transfer and industrial development.
Hungary has sought to attract and retain such investments by offering a stable business environment, skilled workforce and strategic access to European markets.
Regional Impact
For Pétfürdő, located in western Hungary, the expansion brings both economic stability and long-term development opportunities.
Industrial investments of this scale contribute to local economies by supporting employment, infrastructure and related business activities.
They also reinforce the role of smaller industrial towns as important contributors to Hungary’s broader economic performance.
Strengthening Hungary’s Industrial Base
The Huntsman expansion highlights several key trends in Hungary’s industrial landscape: continued foreign investment, increasing emphasis on technological upgrades and the importance of maintaining export-oriented production.
As global industries evolve, companies are investing in capacity and efficiency to remain competitive — and Hungary continues to position itself as a key destination for such developments.
Looking Ahead
With its expanded capacity and upgraded facilities, Huntsman’s Pétfürdő plant is well positioned to support growing demand in international markets while contributing to local employment and innovation.
For Hungary, the investment reinforces its standing as a reliable industrial hub in Central Europe, capable of attracting large-scale projects from global companies across multiple sectors.
As competition for investment intensifies across the region, projects like this demonstrate the continued appeal of Hungary’s industrial ecosystem — where infrastructure, workforce and strategic location combine to support long-term growth
