Non-performing loan ratio in SME loans surpasses 10-year average
Data from the Banking Regulation and Supervision Agency reveals that difficulties faced by small and medium-sized enterprises in loan repayments are increasing faster than general commercial loans.
According to current data shared by the Banking Regulation and Supervision Agency (BRSA), the non-performing loan ratio in SME loans rose to 4.2 percent. This rate exceeded the sector's 10-year average of 3.1 percent, signaling rising risks in the credit market.
Divergence in credit performance
The repayment performance of SME loans continues to diverge negatively from general commercial loans. As of October 9, the non-performing loan ratio in SME loans exceeded its long-term average by 1.1 points.
While the non-performing loan ratio in general commercial loans remained at 2.5 percent, the gap between the two loan groups reached 1.7 points. This situation indicates that SMEs are experiencing greater difficulty in fulfilling their financial obligations.
Trend of change by years
Data covering the 2018-2026 period proves that non-performing loan ratios have followed a volatile course over the years. During the pandemic period, the rates in both groups had risen, and then receded to the 1.5-2 band until 2024.
The new upward trend starting from 2025 became much more pronounced in SME loans in 2026. The pressure on SMEs' loan repayments reached a more striking dimension alongside current economic indicators.