Commission Report 2002 (Hungary)

Chapter 1: Free movement of goods

Alignment of legislation concerning both the New Approach Directives and the traditional sectoral legislation has continued and is now almost complete. Legislation on the provision of information on technical standards and regulations has been partially aligned, with full conformity scheduled for 2003. However, the implementation of protection of pharmaceutical test data has still to be ensured. Implementation of the food acquis has progressed satisfactorily, and the introduction of HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) principles is being promoted across the entire food chain, according to the schedule foreseen in the Action Plan. The responsibilities of the Food Safety Authority, established according to the Action Plan, will need to be defined quickly in order to ensure effective implementation of this part of the acquis and to co-ordinate the activities of the many bodies involved. Otherwise market surveillance and conformity assessment structures, whose reinforcement is foreseen in the Action Plan, are developing satisfactorily. The adoption of legislation on public procurement in July 2002 in the area of motorway construction has gone a long way to increasing transparency and to aligning with the acquis. However, all remaining shortcomings concerning motorway construction as well as those in the area of public procurement in general have still to be addressed. Administrative capacity in this area has been strengthened, but further efforts will be required. Steps have begun to check that legislation is in compliance with Articles 28-30 of the EC Treaty and this work will need to be completed. Overall, the priorities in this area have been met to a large extent. The implementation of all items highlighted in the Action Plan are on track.