In the event, credit growth in 2023 was only 11% as of Dec. 21.
The central bank has also given each bank a fixed growth target for full-year 2024. In the past it used to divide the year into shorter periods, forcing banks to demand a rise in the cap once each target is achieved.
Domestic banks cannot exceed the target at any time during the year, while foreign banks must not exceed it by the end of the year.
The central bank also warned banks against lending at low interest rates to their executives and the latter’s associates.
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh in November ordered the central bank to improve its credit policy to ensure credit is available to everyone in a timely manner.