Quintana Roo Construction Slumps as Investment Drops 17%

Cancún, Quintana Roo — The construction industry in Quintana Roo is navigating a challenging landscape, with private investment declining by 17% during the first half of the year. Ulises Morales, president of the Mexican Chamber of the Construction Industry (CMIC) in the state, confirmed the downturn.

Economic Uncertainty and Rising Costs Hinder Growth

Morales attributed the slowdown to multiple factors, including economic uncertainty, bureaucratic delays in government permits, and rising prices for key materials such as steel, cement, and copper. While external factors like tariffs remain beyond local control, Morales emphasized the potential to bolster the local economy by prioritizing regional businesses, suppliers, and labor.

“This approach could mitigate cost impacts while reactivating the state’s economy,” he added.

One of the sector’s most pressing challenges is the surge in construction material prices, which has disrupted both public and private projects. Steel, which can account for up to 30% of a project’s budget, has seen significant price hikes, complicating planning and execution.

Private Investment Stalls Amid Lack of Clarity

According to CMIC data, private investment in Quintana Roo typically outweighs public investment by a factor of three. However, economic instability has led to widespread project suspensions.

“There is interest in investing, but no one is willing to take risks without knowing the true cost of a project,” Morales stated.

Push for Recovery in the Second Half of 2025

To counter the downturn, the CMIC has forged partnerships with professional associations and industry groups, aiming to revive the sector in the latter half of the year. The initiative seeks to curb job losses in an industry that ranks as the state’s second-largest employer, trailing only tourism.

For further inquiries, contact: redaccionqroo@diariocambio22.mx.