The Czech Republic’s budget deficit is projected to increase significantly next year, rising to 389 billion Czech crowns (approximately $17 billion). This represents a 79 billion crown increase compared to the current year’s expected deficit of 310 billion crowns. Finance Minister Alena Schillerová announced the figures following a government meeting, detailing allocations for individual ministries. The largest increases in funding are earmarked for defense and transportation. Conversely, the ministries of regional development and the environment will receive less funding than this year. The government’s spending plans indicate a shift in priorities towards defense and infrastructure.