Demand for consumer credits in Bulgaria increased by 22 per cent for the first five months of 2007 compared to figures for the same period of 2006, consultancy company Credit Centre analysis showed.

Repair works and energy efficiency improvements within households form the largest part of the loans, Credit Centre said as quoted by Focus news agency.

Credits intended to cover existing debts and leasing purchases feature among new tendencies in credit taking, the report said.

Mortgage credits market liberalisation led to decrease in the number of loans registered as consumer ones but used as housing credits.

According to experts, smaller loans meant higher risk for borrowers compared to bigger and long-term credits.