Non-performing loans (NPLs) in Bangladesh’s banking sector have surged to a fresh record, reaching Tk 6.44 trillion at the end of September — accounting for 35.73 percent of all outstanding loans.

The updated figures were released by the Bangladesh Bank on Wednesday afternoon.

According to the data, total classified loans stood at Tk 6,44,515 crore at the end of September, up from Tk 6,08,345 crore in June. This marks a 1.33 percent rise in NPLs over the three-month period.

The central bank’s report shows a provision shortfall of Tk 3,44,231 crore as of September, while banks have maintained Tk 1,30,366 crore in provisions.

During the same period, interest worth Tk 98,343 crore was kept in suspense.

Overall, total disbursed loans stood at Tk 18,03,839 crore at the end of September, according to the Bangladesh Bank data.