NGM: Margin reduction extended, delivery of food vouchers continues

The ministry recalled that the margin reduction resulted in an average price reduction of 26.5 percent in drugstores and 20 percent in food stores. According to the Ministry of National Economy’s calculations, the measure reduced inflation by about 1.6 percentage points in August. The government also concluded a voluntary price limitation agreement with banks, insurance companies and telecommunications companies, which pharmaceutical industry players also joined as of July 1.

According to recent data from the Central Statistical Office (KSH), in August 2025, the inflation rate was 4.3 percent year-on-year, while prices did not change compared to the previous month. Food inflation was 5.9 percent year-on-year, and did not increase compared to July. For non-catering food (cold food), an annual increase of 4.7 percent and a monthly decrease of 0.1 percent were measured.

Food vouchers will be delivered starting September 2, and the support will affect 2–2.5 million pensioners, with a total value of 83 billion forints.