Industrial developments in Hungary: CATL safety issues and Bayer Construct bankruptcy

Several industrial developments are unfolding in Hungary. At the CATL battery plant in Debrecen, authorities suspended work in three operational areas after nine employees showed elevated nickel exposure. Investigations by the Hajdú-Bihar County Government Office identified deficiencies in protective equipment. CATL stated it is investigating the source of the exposure and has since addressed the safety gaps, though a request for an operating permit for the cell manufacturing plant was rejected and the company received a 10 million HUF fine for environmental violations.

In a separate matter, Semcorp reported that independent laboratory testing of hundreds of soil and groundwater samples at its Debrecen site showed no contamination from aluminum or other tested metals. This follows previous reports of high metal levels in March, which the company suggests may have been due to methodological issues regarding total versus dissolved metal content.

Additionally, Bayer Construct Zrt. has filed for bankruptcy protection. Owner Attila Balázs cited serious financial exposure resulting from regulatory changes, unfavorable market trends, and a government decision regarding the Zugló office complex project. The company intends to continue operations during the proceedings to complete ongoing projects and settle debts with partners.