Waste Fees Built into Prices

The measure builds on changes introduced in 2023, when the government granted MOL’s subsidiary, MOHU MOL Waste Management Zrt., a 35-year concession to run most of the country’s waste system.

At the same time, the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme was launched, requiring producers to cover in advance the cost of collecting and recycling waste generated by their products.

This includes packaging, furniture, electronics and even textiles. While producers formally pay the fee, the cost is built into product prices – meaning shoppers ultimately cover it at the checkout.

Higher Fees Across Multiple Categories

The decree raises EPR fees on a per-kilogram basis for several materials, for example:

Wooden furniture: from 17 HUF to 51 HUF
Textile packaging: from 67 HUF to 148 HUF
Glass packaging: from 77 HUF to 107 HUF
Advertising paper: from 94 HUF to 204 HUF

Charges on electronic waste, batteries, lamps and vehicles will also increase.

Debate Over MOHU’s Role

Critics argue the issue is not funding waste collection itself, but rather the scale of profit MOHU reportedly generates. EU rules define a “reasonable profit” as around 9 percent, but some estimates suggest MOHU operates with margins of 70–80 percent in certain categories.

For example, in the case of paper packaging, Szabad Európa reported that from the 173 HUF per kilogram EPR fee, MOHU pays subcontractors only 80–90 HUF for collection and sorting, keeping the rest. Some subcontractors have also claimed to face worse terms, delayed payments and pressure to sign unfavourable contracts.

Further Adjustments Ahead

The waste management framework is also undergoing other changes:

• Bulky waste: collection rules to be revised.

• Construction and demolition waste: stricter limits at waste yards.

• Green waste: new rules for collection bags and pickup.

• Authorisation: clearer regulations on waste delivered on behalf of others.

• Mobile waste yards: new facilities planned to help smaller towns manage larger or hazardous items such as furniture, electronics or chemicals.
   

High Revenues, Yet Losses

Despite generating about HUF 220 billion in EPR revenue last year, MOHU ended 2024 with a loss of nearly HUF 50 billion, according to 24.hu. This financial situation contributed to the resignation of CEO Zsolt Pethő and the appointment of new management.

Since then, the company has been renegotiating contracts with subcontractors. Revenues in 2025 are expected to rise further once the October fee increases take effect.
 

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