ISSER questions slow pace of "Big Push" as construction growth remains weak

The Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research (ISSER) raised concerns over the slow pace of activity under the government's 'Big Push' infrastructure programme, noting that construction growth remains subdued despite the ambitious initiative. Presenting ISSER's review of the 2026 Mid-Year Budget, Professor Robert Darko Osei, Director of the Institute, stated that the latest economic data suggest many of the flagship infrastructure projects are yet to translate into measurable economic activity. He said, "Construction grew by only 1.3% in 2026 Q1 despite the Government's Big Push Infrastructure Programme. This suggests that many projects may be at the preparatory or early implementation stages, and hence, have not yet translated into stronger measured construction growth."

ISSER attributed the weak performance to the government's continued fiscal restraint, arguing that sharp reductions in capital expenditure have constrained infrastructure spending. The Institute noted that capital expenditure in the first half of 2026 was 41 percent below target. ISSER also stated, "It also reflects the tight fiscal policy stance of the government (CAPEX decline was massive). Government is maintaining tight expenditure controls with no supplementary appropriation."