Because of an economic downturn in Laconia

Because of an economic downturn in Laconia, annual sales of computer companies decreased by roughly 8 percent over the last two years. Computer manufacturers that supply Laconian computer companies have noticed that the proportion of credit given to computer companies operating in Laconia and not paid off on time sharply increased over the first year of the crisis but returned to its normal level during the second year.
Which of the following, if true, best helps explain why the proportion of credit not paid off on time returned to its normal level during the second year of the economic downturn?

(A) Sales of computer companies specializing in repairing and selling used computers did not decrease during the first year of economic downturn.
(B) During the second year of the economic downturn, many computer companies tried to increase their sales by launching advertising campaigns.
(C) Most computer companies that experienced financial difficulties before the economic downturn closed during its first year.
(D) During the second year of the economic downturn, many computer manufacturers increased the total amount of credit extended to computer companies in Laconia.
(E) At the beginning of the second year, the government of Laconia increased the tax rates for computer companies.

Source: OptimusPrep