In 2024, construction material prices recorded another average increase of 6.2% at European level, according to Eurostat. In Romania, the trend was even more pronounced, with prices rising by up to 10% for reinforcing steel, cement and thermal-insulation materials, based on data from the National Institute of Statistics (INS). This evolution has direct implications for budgets of ongoing projects, as well as for short- and medium-term planning capacity.

In the residential sector, builders report delivery delays and the need to rebalance contracts through price-adjustment clauses. At the same time, local and national authorities are required to supplement budgets for public infrastructure contracts. In September 2025, the Ministry of Development announced the revision of more than 1,200 contracts under the “Anghel Saligny” National Investment Programme, following the increase in construction material costs.

Persistent inflationary pressure, logistical bottlenecks and high demand in the energy and infrastructure sectors continue to shape a tense market environment. Analyses by the European Commission suggest that prices will gradually stabilise in 2026, but without returning to pre-pandemic levels. In this context, financial adaptability and contractual flexibility become essential for ensuring the continuity of construction projects.

(Photo: Freepik)