The Czech Republic registered an estimated 10.7 million cinema visits during 2002, compared to 10.4 million in 2001 and 8.3 million in 2000, according to preliminary results of the Czech Union of Film Distributors (UFD).

The biggest increases in cinemagoing were seen in Ceske Budejovice, Hradec Kralove and Ostrava where new multiplex cinemas were opened in 2002.

There are currently nine multiplexes in Prague, with the 10th due to be opened end-February.