In 2007, private sector lending increased by 11% to EUR 244.1 (220.9) billion, of which 70% is granted to private individuals, 19% to the trade, industry and services sector and 11% to the food & agri sector. Loans to private individuals were 8% higher, at EUR 172.1 (158.9) billion, virtually all of which - EUR 168.7 (153.7) billion - are mortgages.
Growth in the number of clients among small and medium-sized enterprises and the growing demand for loans caused a 16% increase, to EUR 46.1 (39.9) billion, in lending to the trade, industry and services sector. Lending to the real estate, transport and building sectors particularly showed strong growth.
Lending to the food & agri sector grew by 17% to EUR 25.8 (22.1) billion, with the primary agricultural sector accounting for the greater part. These loans grew by 19% to EUR 21.6 (18.2) billion. Higher lending to the fruit and vegetables sector and the dairy and animal protein sector was an important contributor to this growth.