Ethiopia to Ease Bank Lending Cap, Unlocking 1.3 Trillion Birr in Credit











ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia – August 29, 2025 – Ethiopia is set to lift the long-standing cap on bank lending starting next month, a move that could inject more than 1.3 trillion birr into the economy, according to officials at the Ministry of Finance.

The policy shift, scheduled to take effect in September, will allow banks to expand credit supply in line with market demand, easing a restriction that has constrained lending for several years. The new lending volume represents a 500 billion birr increase compared to last year, underscoring the government’s push to expand financial access for businesses and households.

Finance Minister Eyob Tekalign (PhD) confirmed the plan, noting that safeguards have been put in place to prevent runaway inflation. “The release of such a large volume of credit must be accompanied by prudent monetary oversight to ensure that it does not overheat the market,” he said in a briefing.

Inflation Risks and Precautions

Ethiopia has been battling double-digit inflation for years, with food prices and currency depreciation fueling household pressures. Analysts warn that while additional liquidity could support investment and private-sector growth, it also risks stoking demand-side inflation unless carefully managed.

The Ministry of Finance said it is working in close coordination with the National Bank of Ethiopia (NBE) to ensure that the credit expansion is rolled out gradually, with targeted oversight of high-risk sectors. Measures under consideration include stricter reserve requirements, phased liquidity injections, and closer monitoring of bank lending practices.

A Boost for Businesses and Consumers

The easing of the credit ceiling is expected to benefit businesses struggling with financing constraints, particularly in manufacturing, construction, and agriculture—sectors seen as critical to Ethiopia’s growth strategy. For households, easier access to credit could improve housing and consumer financing, though authorities remain cautious about over-leveraging risks.

Economists suggest that if managed effectively, the reform could provide a much-needed stimulus for Ethiopia’s slowing economy, attracting private investment and improving confidence in the financial sector.

With 1.3 trillion birr set to flow into the financial system—half a trillion birr more than last year—the coming months will test Ethiopia’s ability to balance growth with stability. The government insists that it has learned from past episodes of inflationary shocks and is prepared to implement corrective measures if needed.

“The key is balance,” said Minister Eyob. “We must support growth and private investment while maintaining discipline in monetary policy.”