Hungary

History of Relations | Diplomatic Representation | Travel Info | Health Requirements | Climate Info | Currency Info | Trade Info | Visits and Meetings | Agreements | Interest Groups/ Organisations

History of Relations

A South African Office of Interest was opened in April 1990 in Budapest, followed by the opening of the Hungarian Office of Interest in Pretoria and a Hungarian commercial office in Johannesburg in November 1990. Full diplomatic relations were established in July 1991. Subsequently a Hungarian Consulate General was opened in Cape Town.

During April 1999, former President Mandela paid a State Visit to Hungary at the invitation of President Göncz. This was his last State Visit to a European capital before retiring from office.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Hungary

H E Mr P Vermeulen
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Hungarian Representation in South Africa

H E Mr A G Horvath
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Hungarian Embassy in South Africa

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

South African citizens need a visa to visit Hungary.

For more information contact the Hungarian Embassy in Pretoria.

Health Requirements

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers coming from an infected area.

For further information go to Travelers' Health.

Climate Info

Hungary is in the continental zone and has a temperate climate. The number of hours of sunshine averages between 1,900 and 2,500 a year. The average temperature in January is -1oC to -3oC (20-27oF) and in July 20oC to 26oC (68-78oF). The annual average precipitation is 650 mm (26 inches). The negative effects of weather fronts are diminished by the Alps and the Carpathian mountains.

Spring and autumn are the best times to visit, especially March-June and September-October.

For up-to-date weather information click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Hungarian Forint (HUF). The Forint is fully convertible.

For current exchange rates click here.

State and Official Visits / Bilateral Meetings

	South African Delegation Visit to Hungary - Arts and Culture (April 2003)
	South African Delegation Visit to Hungary - Science and Technology (February 2003) -
	Visit by Minister in the Office of the President, Minster Essop Pahad (September 2002)

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

South Africa's main exports to Hungary include iron ore, steel, coal, public telephones, fruit and vegetables, spices and cut flowers. Hungary's main exports to South Africa include machinery, electronic equipment and meat (pork) products.

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Hungary, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

Interest Groups and Information

Hungarian Business Forum of South Africa

PO Box 72312

Lynnwood Ridge

0040

Tel/Fax: (012) 477 078

Chairman: Mr Denes A Toth