GST Rate Cuts on Construction Materials to Reduce Housing Costs by 2-4%, Boosting Affordable Housing
Recent GST rate reductions on key construction materials are expected to lower overall construction costs by 2-4%, particularly benefiting the affordable and mid-market housing segments. The GST rate for cement has been reduced from 28% to 18%, and for marble and granite from 12% to 5%. These changes are anticipated to gradually impact the market over the next one to two quarters, with potential benefits including new project launches and accelerated housing supply in urban markets. The timing of these cuts, coinciding with the festive season, could further stimulate the real estate market.

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In a move set to benefit the real estate sector, particularly the affordable and mid-market housing segments, recent GST rate cuts on key construction materials are expected to reduce overall construction costs by 2-4%. This development comes as welcome news for both developers and homebuyers, potentially stimulating the housing market.
GST Rate Reductions
The Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council has implemented significant rate cuts on essential construction materials:
- Cement: GST rate reduced from 28% to 18%
- Marble and granite: GST rate lowered from 12% to 5%
These reductions are anticipated to have a substantial impact on the construction industry, given that material costs typically account for 50-60% of total construction expenses, according to Mohit Goel, Managing Director of Omaxe Ltd .
Gradual Implementation and Impact
The cost savings from these GST rate cuts are expected to be realized gradually:
- Timeframe: One to two quarters
- Implementation: As new tenders are issued and fresh material orders are placed
- Tender negotiations: Expected to reflect new GST rates within 30-90 days
- Market pricing adjustments: Visible changes anticipated over the next three to nine months
Benefits to Affordable Housing
The affordable and mid-market housing segments are poised to benefit the most from these GST rate reductions. These sectors are particularly sensitive to material costs due to their tight profit margins.
Timing and Market Dynamics
The timing of these GST rate cuts coincides with the festive season, which traditionally sees a 15-20% increase in housing enquiries. This alignment could potentially amplify the positive impact on the real estate market.
Future Outlook
The combination of GST rate cuts and stable interest rates is expected to create a favorable environment for the real estate sector:
- Encouragement of new project launches
- Acceleration of housing supply in key urban markets
As these changes take effect, the real estate industry anticipates a boost in activity, potentially leading to increased affordability and accessibility in the housing market, particularly in the affordable and mid-market segments.
Developers and homebuyers alike will be watching closely as these changes unfold, with the potential for a more vibrant and accessible housing market in the coming months.
Historical Stock Returns for Omaxe
1 Day | 5 Days | 1 Month | 6 Months | 1 Year | 5 Years |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
+0.60% | -0.07% | -6.88% | +20.56% | -23.56% | +28.31% |