WILLEMSTAD – Several construction materials on Curaçao have increased in price again over the past year, according to a new market survey conducted among major hardware stores and suppliers on the island.
The price comparison study, carried out by the Consumers' Association between May 7 and May 18, examined the prices of 134 construction materials at six businesses: Kooyman Group, Gomez Enterprises, Ferreteria Schèrpènè, Dijtham, Building Depot and Staal Antillen.
According to the analysis, several companies recorded significantly more price increases than price reductions.
At Kooyman, prices increased for 49 construction materials, while 17 products became cheaper. Building Depot registered price increases for 47 items and decreases for nine. At Staal Antillen, the consumer organization recorded 21 price increases compared to ten price reductions.
The study also found that Kooyman offered the broadest assortment among the surveyed companies, carrying 116 of the 134 construction materials included in the comparison. Building Depot followed with 85 products, while Gomez Enterprises carried 55.
Fundashon pa Konsumidó emphasized that the survey did not take into account country of origin, brand or product quality. The comparison focused solely on price levels.
The organization linked the survey to the approaching hurricane and rainy season, urging residents not to delay repairs to roofs and homes.
Consumers are also being advised to compare prices carefully before purchasing construction materials, as price differences between suppliers can be significant.