It is necessary to stabilize the supply and prices of construction materials.

Recently, the prices of many construction materials in the province have been continuously increasing, causing difficulties for businesses and affecting the progress of many construction projects, especially those using state budget funds. This situation urgently requires stabilizing the supply and implementing a more flexible and appropriate management mechanism to adapt to market developments.

The contractor is deploying steel structures and carrying out the renovation and upgrading project of Thanh Lan wharf (Co To special economic zone).

Observations at several ongoing construction projects in the province show that many key construction materials such as sand, stone, steel, and cement are trending upwards compared to the same period in 2024. For example, at one point, the unit price of sand for embankment construction, quoted by suppliers at 250,000 VND/ ^m³ in 2024, increased to 650,000 VND/ ^m³ ; construction sand increased from 320,000 VND/ ^m³ to 720,000 VND/ ^m³ ; concrete sand increased from 600,000 VND/ ^m³ to 1.2 million VND/ ^m³ ; and crushed stone aggregate (type 1) increased from 270,000 VND/ ^m³ to 470,000 VND/ ^m³ … All the above prices exclude VAT. Rapid and unpredictable price increases are leaving contractors struggling to balance costs.

Mr. Dao Van Hang, a representative of a construction company in the province, said: "There are times when material prices increase weekly. Meanwhile, construction contracts are signed based on old unit prices, and if not adjusted promptly, businesses are very likely to suffer losses. Many units are forced to work at a reduced pace, waiting for prices to stabilize."

Not only contractors, but also the units assigned as investors and project managers are under pressure to ensure construction progress, capital disbursement, and efficient use of funds. Quang Ninh is a locality currently implementing many important infrastructure projects from public investment capital, such as: connecting transportation routes, schools, healthcare facilities, urban renovation... When material prices increase sharply, some contractors have to adjust construction plans, causing delays.

Construction is underway on the project to expand and upgrade Provincial Road 338.

According to officials from the Provincial Investment and Construction Project Management Board, Region I, rising material prices have rendered the cost estimates for some projects outdated. Adjustments require extensive review and additional time. This significantly impacts construction plans and capital disbursement.

Meanwhile, some contractors are hesitant to participate in new bidding packages due to concerns about continued material price increases and risks beyond their control. This is one of the reasons reducing the attractiveness of public investment projects in the eyes of construction businesses.

Upon investigation, the increase in construction material prices is a result of several converging factors. These include higher fuel and transportation costs; restrictions or closures at some material mines in the area for planning and environmental reviews; and continued high demand for infrastructure and urban development. Without measures to stabilize supply, especially for sand, stone, and leveling materials, price fluctuations could persist. This would directly impact the local government's goal of ensuring the progress and effectiveness of public investment projects.

The contractor is carrying out the asphalt paving work on the road connecting Co To Island.

Given the current situation, many opinions suggest that Quang Ninh needs to promptly implement comprehensive solutions to stabilize the construction materials market, thereby creating favorable conditions for public investment projects. First, the province needs to continue reviewing and supplementing the planning of common construction material mines, accelerating the licensing process for exploitation while strengthening environmental management, avoiding localized shortages and price increases. Along with that, updating and publishing construction material prices closely reflecting market conditions is also essential, providing a basis for investors and contractors to adjust estimates, sign and pay contracts according to regulations, and reduce disputes and hesitation during construction. In particular, prices must be strictly controlled to prevent mine owners and businesses from exploiting the scarcity of construction materials to inflate costs.

Furthermore, encouraging the use of new, environmentally friendly materials, and utilizing locally sourced materials after processing, are also directions that need to be given more attention in the future. According to the head of the Department of Construction, the province is strengthening its monitoring of the materials market, coordinating with localities and relevant units to promptly address difficulties in supply, ensuring that key construction projects are not interrupted due to material shortages.

Effective management of the construction materials market not only helps ensure the progress of public investment projects but also contributes to stabilizing the construction market, preventing abnormal price increases that affect people's lives and business activities. In the context of Quang Ninh striving to maintain its growth momentum, complete its infrastructure, and build increasingly civilized and modern cities, proactively controlling construction material prices is a strategic task that cannot be delayed.

Manh Truong

Source: https://baoquangninh.vn/can-on-dinh-nguon-cung-gia-vat-lieu-xay-dung-3388994.html