A. M. The consumer sector consolidated its position as the main driver of lending in El Salvador, reaching a balance of US$5.79 billion in february 2025. This segment represented 32.8% of the total loan portfolio, according to the most recent Banking Ranking of the Asociación Bancaria Salvadoreña (ABANSA). This figure not only confirmed its leadership in the sector structure but also made a key contribution to the overall growth of the financial system.
Compared to february 2024, the amount of consumer loans increased by US$316.2 million. Although the proportion of loans within the total remained stable at 32.8%, their gross volume made a significant difference in the performance of loans, which together totaled US$17.64 billion in 2025.
The total loan balance in El Salvador grew by US$973.8 million, a 5.8% increase compared to february of the previous year. This result was driven primarily by the commerce, consumer goods, and construction sectors, which saw a 22.3% increase in their loan portfolio.
In contrast, the non-performing loan portfolio showed a positive trend for the financial system, registering a decrease of US$11.5 million compared to the previous year. The non-performing loan balance stood at US$303.6 million, representing a 3.6% decrease compared to February 2024, reflecting improved payment terms for borrowers.
Looking at other sectors, retail maintained its relative weight, while construction and housing achieved slight increases. However, the “Other” and “Services” sectors registered declines in their structural share. The consumer sector, despite not increasing its share, maintained the largest absolute loan volume, demonstrating its importance within the Salvadoran economy.
Thus, the ABANSA report confirms that consumer spending continues to be the main driving force for bank loan growth in El Salvador.
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