The extremely dry weather conditions across the region and in significant parts of Hungary are creating major difficulties for the agricultural sector, which banks are seeking to help farmers overcome. The recently published Government Decree on the agricultural credit moratorium offers a full moratorium for certain agricultural sectors, going far beyond the principal moratorium proposed by banks, which can be financially justified in certain cases. As a result of the extreme weather, and in order to maintain the dynamics of development, the agricultural sector will require additional, substantial bank credit. The banking sector is ready to provide this in the form of market-conform solutions. However, due to the deterioration in customer risk ratings resulting from international regulations, the Government Decree published will make it more difficult for applying customers to meet creditworthiness criteria, which also carries a significant financial risk. The Hungarian Banking Association calls upon businesses that are facing difficulties due to the drought or for other reasons to find an appropriate financial solution in consultation with their own bank, thus ensuring the predictable development of their business.
Budapest, 9 August 2022
the Hungarian Banking Association