The Hungarian State Railway company, MAV AG, underwent significant reforms to stabilize passenger and freight volumes after a decline in the 1990s. In 1996, the government restructured the railways to align with EU policies, aiming to create a competitive, economically viable rail transport system with proper state funding. MAV AG became a state-owned joint stock company in 1993, separating infrastructure activities from operations. The Hungarian Railway Act of 1993 established the principle of access to railway infrastructure. Plans to further disaggregate the railway company were outlined, with support from EUROFIMA for rolling stock modernization.