It takes a lot, but there’s no payoff. Why glass factories in Ukraine take so long to build
According to the World Bank, at least $524 billion is needed to rebuild Ukraine. The country can produce 90% of the construction materials required for post-war housing and infrastructure recovery. However, some products remain imported.
The shortage of glass is particularly acute since Ukraine lacks domestic production. Demand is rising because glass is easily destroyed during enemy attacks.
Before the full-scale invasion, 75% to 100% of glass was imported from Russia and Belarus. Ukraine served as a supplier of raw materials. The last major glass factory, in Lysychansk, was destroyed back in 2014.
After cutting trade ties with sanctioned companies linked to the aggressor state, Ukraine has had to seek new suppliers. This takes time and resources, leading to delays in material deliveries and rising costs.
In 2024, glass prices surged by 46% to 53%, significantly complicating construction work, especially on large-scale projects, said Lev Partskhaladze, president of the Confederation of Builders of Ukraine (CBU).