Default loans hit record Tk 1.56 lakh crore

Non-performing loans (NPLs) in the country's banking sector reached a record high of Tk 1,56,039 crore at the end of June this year.

Such loans rose by Tk 35,383 crore between January and June, and Tk 24,419 crore between March and June, the latest Bangladesh Bank data shows. 

The disbursed loans at the end of June stood at Tk 15,42,655 crore. Of this, Tk 1,56,039 crore became default.  

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, borrowers enjoyed complete repayment exemptions in 2020 and 2021. The Bangladesh Bank gave them the opportunity to not become defaulters even if they failed to repay.

In 2022, there was also some relaxation in borrowing at low interest rates and repayments. Despite all these facilities, clients did not repay loans.

Economists say default loans would rise if defaulters continue to get special facilities.