DAR ES SALAAM, Oct. 23 -- PERSONAL loans remained the largest component of bank credit in the year ending August accounting for 34.1 per cent of lending to selected economic activities, as private-sector credit continued to expand, highlighting sustained demand for financing among households and businesses.

The latest Bank of Tanzanias (BoT) Monthly Economic Review shows that credit to the private sector grew by 33 per cent annually to 55.23tri/- in August, up from 41.53tri/- recorded during the corresponding period last year.

Trade accounted for the second-largest share of credit at 15.8 per cent, followed by agriculture at 13.8 per cent, reflecting the importance of commercial and agricultural activities in banks lending portfolios. ...