Hungarian construction industry awaits demand recovery

The Hungarian construction industry continues to face a period of weak demand, with companies adapting to a difficult market environment. According to OPTEN data, the number of construction companies is expected to continue declining through 2026, although the rate of business closures has slowed compared to the previous year.

László Koji, president of ÉVOSZ, noted that medium and large-scale contractors are particularly affected as the volume of such projects has shrunk significantly. This contraction is leading to the decline of professional workshops even before companies reach the point of total closure.

Industry experts suggest that a recovery does not primarily require new labor or capacity, but rather predictable orders and long-term planning capabilities. Potential drivers for revitalization include EU funds, state investments, and the energy modernization of the housing stock, which could benefit general contractors, specialized firms, and construction material traders alike.