The Ghana Statistical Service has reported a significant slowdown in building cost inflation, offering households, businesses, and government agencies a rare window of stability in the construction sector.
According to the July 2026 Prime Building Cost Index (PBCI), year‑on‑year inflation in building inputs fell sharply to 4.0 percent, down from 14.2 percent recorded in the same month last year. Month‑on‑month figures showed only a gentle rise of 0.3 percent between June and July, underscoring steady prices across most materials.
The report highlights mixed trends among key drivers of building inflation. Plumbing fittings recorded the fastest price rise at 25.3 percent, followed by small tools and roofing sheets. In contrast, cement prices dropped by 9.8 percent and steel by 8.9 percent, providing relief to contractors and households.
Materials, which make up more than three‑quarters of the construction basket, rose by 5.1 percent over the year. However, plant costs — covering machinery and equipment — surged by 18.0 percent, identified as the main risk being closely monitored.
Government Statistician Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu noted that the evidence points to a low‑inflation window. He advised households to budget with current prices and build in phases, while urging businesses to price contracts based on today’s evidence and manage exposure to tools and equipment. He further called on government to fast‑track project delivery, monitor equipment costs, and strengthen artisan skills to sustain the gains.
The Statistical Service emphasized that cheaper structural materials are partly offsetting costlier fittings and tools, creating opportunities for more predictable planning in the construction sector.
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