ZAGREB, 30 June (Hina) - The Croatian government adopted a budgetary framework for the period 2026-2028, according to which expenditure in 2026 will increase by €2.1 billion compared to 2025.
The expenditure defined in the budgetary framework decision will rise in 2026 by €2.1 billion, to a total of €30.8 billion, an increase of 7.2% compared to 2025.
“Expenditure is increasing as a result of the government’s measures aimed at improving citizens’ living standards, investing in infrastructure, and strengthening societal security," Prime Minister Andrej Plenković said at a session of his cabinet.
He highlighted increases in pensions and pension-related benefits, funding for demographic measures, improvements in housing quality, and higher wages for employees in state administration and public services.
He also mentioned rising allowances in the healthcare and social welfare systems, investments in defence and the modernisation of the Croatian Armed Forces, and funding for rail, road, and water utility infrastructure.
Expenditure set for 2027 is projected to increase by €469.8 million, or 1.5%
Expenditure set for 2027 is projected to increase by €469.8 million, or 1.5%, compared to 2026.
2028 expenses to be cut by 1%
However, expenditure in 2028 is expected to fall by €314.4 million (a 1% decrease) due to the planned completion of post-earthquake reconstruction projects.
"With the new budgetary framework over the next three years, we are securing funding for measures that enhance the quality of life for citizens and address key issues for Croatia’s future. At the same time, we remain committed to responsible management of public finances, which has been the cornerstone of this government’s policy over its past three terms," said Plenković.
The decision also sets out the projected deficits or surpluses of extra-budgetary users of the state budget for the period 2026–2028.
A deficit of €20.9 million is expected in 2026, followed by €192 million in 2027 and €123.3 million in 2028.
The decision made by the government today provides the basis for drafting the state budget and financial plans for extra-budgetary users for the 2026-2028 period.
Srđan Baković
Izvršni urednik
Hrvatska izvještajna novinska agencija (HINA)
