In an interview with Primera Edición de Misiones, it was mentioned that the construction sector is in a complicated situation, with national works that are not advancing and payments for certificates being made intermittently. This halt in public works has led the construction sector into a deep recession, with cement shipments showing a decline of 26.2% compared to the previous year.
According to statistics from the Portland Cement Manufacturing Association (AFCP), construction has been the most affected sector, representing 56.29% of layoffs and suspensions this year. The drop in activity is reflected in the sale of materials and supplies, with an annual decline of 20% in October.
In the first 10 months of 2024, 7,906,731 tons of cement were dispatched, a significantly lower figure than the 10,714,784 tons dispatched in the same period of 2023. This decline in shipments is reflected in cement consumption, which has decreased by 19.9% year-on-year.
Damián Altgelt, executive director of AFCP, pointed out that the cement sector is going through a difficult year with a decline close to 25% compared to the previous year. Despite this, he hopes that macroeconomic measures can boost activity again and recover previous levels.
In Misiones, the construction sector is also affected by delays in payments for certificates, which could lead to a reduction in the number of formal workers. Ariel Ledesma, general secretary of UOCRA in the province, expressed his concern about the current situation and warned of a possible halt in works due to payment delays.
In this context, companies like Loma Negra, Holcim, Cementos Avellaneda, and PCR are evaluating their next steps based on the evolution of the sector. The uncertainty and lack of progress in public works at the national level have contributed to the difficult situation facing the construction industry in the country.
