Hungary introduces simplified forestry subsidy rules due to drought

New regulatory frameworks and measures have been introduced regarding forestry subsidies in response to the extraordinary drought conditions of 2026. To assist farmers, the legislator and the National Directorate Authority have implemented overlapping measures to simplify the application of 'vis maior' rules for subsidies related to unified applications.

These administrative simplifications aim to reduce the burden on affected landholders specifically regarding drought-related damages. However, these eased procedures apply exclusively to cases linked to the extraordinary drought recognized in ministerial communications. Other 'vis maior' events, such as fire, storm, or different types of damage, must still follow general 'vis maior' regulations, including formal declarations.

The changes are based on three complementary legal and official actions: a ministerial communication regarding national drought damage, an amendment to the 'vis maior' decree, and a communication from the National Directorate Authority. These simplified rules do not apply to subsidies requested through procedures other than the unified application process.