The Mining and Quarrying Association of Jamaica (MQAJ) says construction companies, developers and property owners should brace for likely increases in the cost of key materials, as operators respond to mounting cost pressures.

These include construction-grade limestone and sand.

The Association emphasises that any anticipated price adjustment is being driven by economic realities, with rising energy costs, that is, for both fuel and electricity, placing sustained strain on production and distribution.

The MQAJ says heavy processing equipment requires significant power, with some operators already facing monthly electricity bills in the millions alongside higher fuel costs for hauling and export.

According to the Association, these pressures come as the industry continues to recover from millions in losses, caused by Hurricane Melissa last year, which disrupted operations and damaged infrastructure.

It says recent data from the Statistical Institute of Jamaica (STATIN) shows the mining and quarrying sector declined by 37.5%.

President of the Association, Sam Millington, says the impact is being felt across the value chain, adding that when fuel and electricity costs rise at the same time, it affects every stage of production.

He says operators have been absorbing as much as possible, but there are limits.

Mr. Millington adds that without intervention, the sector risks falling behind more cost-efficient markets.

An MQAJ statement points to ongoing recovery challenges following hurricane damage, particularly for operators in Black River.

The Association notes that rising port fees have further impacted export competitiveness, with some buyers shifting to lower-cost regions.

Stakeholders across construction and real estate are being encouraged to plan accordingly, as any increase will reflect broader systemic pressures.