Extensive damage and import restrictions have caused a severe shortage of steel, cement, and other materials needed for reconstruction and repairs since last month’s earthquake, retailers and business owners said.
Bags of cement, which sold for around 20,000 kyat (US $4.50) in early 2025, are now difficult to acquire and cost between 40,000 and 50,000 (US $9 and $11) when they are available, construction business employees said.
The current market price is at least an eightfold increase from the cost of 5,000 kyat per bag, which was usual before the 2021 coup. These prices reflect market conditions in Yangon, which was far from the epicentre of the quake, and are likely higher in the more heavily impacted areas of central Myanmar.
Cement is in short supply even at retail stores in the domestic market, according to staff at cement and building. . .
Subscribe for full access
Hear crucial voices from Myanmar during this time of crisis and get access to our independent coverage.
Already a subscriber? Log in
