According to data from the National Institute of Statistics (INS) and the Federation of Construction Companies (FPSC), the first six months of 2025 marked a 4.3% decline in construction materials sales compared to the same period last year. The downturn is attributed to reduced demand in the new residential segment, impacted by high interest rates and economic uncertainty.

The most affected categories are brick (-6.2%), reinforcing steel (-5.8%), and thermal insulation materials (-4.1%). However, demand for paints and interior renovation products increased by 2.7%, particularly in small urban and rural areas.

Specialized retailers reported lower in-store traffic but moderate growth in online sales. According to a PwC Romania report, consumers are increasingly seeking energy-efficient products, yet remain cautious due to rising prices. Meanwhile, distributors warn that some supply chains from Asia have been disrupted by geopolitical tensions in the Red Sea region.

The FPSC anticipates a slight recovery in Q4, driven by the launch of local NRRP-funded projects and the resumption of delayed private investments. In the short term, however, the market remains volatile.

(Photo: Freepik)