Central Bank Survey: 61% of Uzbek Borrowers Struggle to Repay Debt on Time

A survey conducted by the Central Bank of Uzbekistan among approximately 5,800 residents reveals that 77% of respondents or their family members have debt. Of those with debt, 61% report difficulty repaying it on time, and nearly half spend more than half of their household income on debt payments. The survey highlights growing financial strain among Uzbek households, with many struggling to meet their obligations. The central bank's findings underscore rising consumer indebtedness and potential risks to financial stability in the country. No official policy response has been announced yet, but the data may prompt regulatory attention to household leverage.

Global Impact

This is a domestic economic indicator for Uzbekistan with limited global spillover. The main impact is social and economic: rising household debt distress could slow consumption, increase bank credit risk, and potentially require regulatory intervention.