BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 11. Commercial banks in
Uzbekistan had extended 629 trillion soms (about $52.5 billion) in
outstanding loans as of May 1, 2026, an increase of 11% compared
with the same period a year earlier, the Central Bank of Uzbekistan
said.
While the industrial sector remained the largest recipient of
bank financing, the country’s credit portfolio continued to
diversify as lending expanded across households, construction,
services, and agriculture.
Industry accounted for the largest share of outstanding loans,
totaling 137.5 trillion soms (about $11.4 billion), or 22% of the
overall credit portfolio. However, lending to the sector declined
by 14% year-on-year, suggesting a broader distribution of credit
resources across other areas of the economy.
Household lending emerged as one of the fastest-growing
segments, with outstanding loans reaching 230.8 trillion soms
(about $19.2 billion), representing 37% of total bank lending. The
segment expanded by 21% over the past year, reinforcing its
position as the largest component of the country’s credit
market.
Several key sectors of the real economy also posted strong
growth. Lending to the construction sector increased by 44%, while
loans to trade and general services rose by 20%. Credit extended to
the agricultural sector grew by 16%, reflecting rising economic
activity and increased financing of investment projects.
The strongest growth rate was recorded in the category of other
sectors, where lending climbed 31% year-on-year. Meanwhile, loans
to the transportation and communications sector remained broadly
stable.
The latest figures indicate that although industry continues to
hold a leading position in Uzbekistan’s credit portfolio, banks are
increasingly channeling financing toward households, services,
construction, and agriculture, strengthening support for a wider
range of economic activities and growth sectors.
