Introduced in 2011, the public health product tax (NETA) in Hungary targets specific food and drink products known to pose health risks. It aims to reduce the consumption of unhealthy foods and promote healthier nutrition among the Hungarian population.
Since 1 August 2023, companies subject to NETA can chose to earmark 10% of their tax to programmes promoting active lifestyles and daily physical activity in the country. This step aims to ensure that a part of the tax revenue directly contributes to the promotion of healthy and active lifestyles in Hungary. The monthly revenue from the initiative increased from HUF 24.8 million (€63,071) in August 2023 to HUF 177.7 million (€454,663) in March 2024.
The government has established a council composed of health and other professionals to ensure the effective utilization of the raised money. The council has convened twice and decided on the launch of 15 programmes, including a trekking camp for disadvantaged children, school hiking programmes, a national weight loss programme, and a national programme to encourage GPs to prescribe exercise in addition to or instead of medication.