Bilateral investment treaties (BITs) have been used as a powerful asset in attracting foreign capital for the benefit of the host state, while ensuring a favourable and predictable investment environment for investors venturing abroad. The more than 2700 BITs currently in force – comprising 56 BITs to which Hungary is a signatory – have had a significant impact on cross-border business activities all around the world. The beneficial effect of bilateral investment treaties has been especially palpable in transition economies within the Eastern bloc in pursuit of establishing international relations with Western countries and kick-starting economic growth. The present article aims at granting a concise overview of bilateral investment treaties in Hungary, the leading newcomer in the system of BITs within its region, with a special regard to the historical background, structure and future fate of such agreements.