Uzbekistan total external debt as of October 1, 2020 amounted to US$ 29.3 billion, recording 19.7% or US$ 4.8 billion increase to the beginning of 2020, the Central Bank’s Balance of payments, international investment position and external debt of the Republic of Uzbekistan publication said.
The public sector debt in 9 months increased by US$ 2.9 billion. Due to the global pandemic and the economic slowdown, the market value of Uzbekistan's sovereign bonds has slightly decreased compared to the beginning of 2020 as a result of a decrease in quotations on international financial markets. Private sector debt increased by US$ 1.9 billion, mainly due to increased borrowing by banks.
the Bank noted that the private sector attracted US$ 3 billion worth of loans. Borrowing was mainly carried out by banks - US$ 2.6 billion, textile enterprises - US$ 95 million and enterprises of other sectors of the economy - US$ 260 million.
Meanwhile, the public external debt’s principal and interest were repaid by US$ 454.8 million and US$ 263.4 million, respectively.
Payments on private external debt amounted to US$ 1.3 billion in principal and US$ 242.1 million in interest. While, the oil-gas and energy companies, as well as the banking sector continue to make the largest volume of payments both on principal and interest.