On a calendar-adjusted basis, the sector expanded by 5.5% compared to the same month last year. Month-on-month, construction output increased by 2.5%, based on seasonally and working-day adjusted figures.
The mixed performance of Hungary’s two main construction segments highlights a divergence in the industry. While the volume of building construction declined 9.3% year-on-year, civil engineering output—typically encompassing infrastructure such as roads, bridges and utilities—soared by 26.0%.
At the divisional level, the volume of production rose 12.1% in the construction of buildings and 28.5% in civil engineering. However, specialized construction activities—which hold the largest share of the sector—fell sharply, down 13.3% year-on-year.
The volume of new contracts signed in May climbed 17% overall. Contracts for civil engineering works surged by 51.0%, while those for building construction dropped 7.5%, underscoring a shift in demand toward state- or municipality-backed infrastructure development.
Hungary’s construction sector also reported a higher backlog. The total volume of construction contracts on hand at the end of May was 11.5% higher than a year earlier. Within this, contracts for civil engineering jumped by 29.3%, while those for building construction declined 9.4%.
Despite the recent monthly rebound, the industry remains in negative territory on a year-to-date basis. In the first five months of 2025, construction output was down 2.4% compared to the same period in 2024, reflecting a slow start to the year and subdued performance in the residential and commercial segments.
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