A survey by the Central Bank of Uzbekistan reveals that six out of ten respondents with debt obligations face difficulties in repaying them on time. The study was conducted on January 20-27, 2026, involving approximately 5,800 residents from all regions of the country.

77% of respondents reported having debt obligations for themselves or family members. Of these, 68% have bank loans, and one in five (21%) also has non-bank debts.

The most common purposes for borrowing include purchasing or renovating housing (20%), buying a car (18%), consumer goods, education, daily expenses, business, medical treatment, and weddings. About 8% of borrowers took out a new loan to repay existing debt.

For 68% of respondents, the total monthly payment on all obligations is less than 6 million soums. The most common payment range is 2-4 million soums. In terms of remaining term, 48% have less than 3 years left, while 27% have 5 years or more.

The average debt burden ratio (monthly payments to income) stands at 51%. For 47% of respondents, the ratio exceeds 50%, including 27% with 76% or more. Compared to the first half of 2024, the share of borrowers with a ratio above 50% decreased by 1 percentage point.

47% of respondents expect their repayment capacity to improve in the next six months, 42% foresee no change, and 11% anticipate deterioration. 15% plan to take on additional debt, while 71% do not intend to borrow.

Only 19% of survey participants have additional income sources, of which 58% earn less than 4 million soums per month. The largest group (28%) consists of five-member families, with most reporting an average monthly primary income not exceeding 12 million soums.

Source: www.gazeta.uz