China’s outstanding loan growth eased to 5.8% year-over-year in March 2026, down from 6.0% in February, according to data updated on 13 April 2026. The figures, measured on a year-over-year basis, underscore a continued moderation in credit expansion across the Chinese banking system.
The “previous” reading of 6.0% reflected February’s growth compared with February a year earlier, while the latest “actual” figure captures March loan growth against the same month in the prior year. The incremental slowdown points to softer demand for credit or tighter lending conditions, and may signal a more cautious financing environment for households and businesses as the year progresses.