INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
The Construction Confidence Index slipped to 93.6 points in April, its lowest since March 2022, reflecting a cooling mood among builders.The
Current Situation Index dropped to 92.6, while expectations for the next months fell to 94.8
These figures point to growing caution, as firms see weaker contract portfolios and business conditions.Despite this, sector forecasts
Industry analysts expect construction to grow by 2.8% in 2025, with government programs like Minha Casa Minha Vida and the Growth
create jobs and attract investment, especially in infrastructure and residential projects.Still, challenges persist
Lower Confidence and Rising Costs
(Photo Internet reproduction)The National Construction Cost Index has climbed 6.85% over the past year
Over 71% of construction firms report trouble finding skilled workers, which slows project delivery and raises costs.Data from the National
Confederation of Industry shows business confidence among industrial firms fell to 48 in April, the lowest since 2020.This decline signals
broader economic concerns, such as weak domestic demand and a strong US dollar, that weigh on investment decisions
costs, labor shortages, and tight credit, even as government spending and infrastructure needs drive cautious optimism
