Is Your House ‘Made in China?’ Builder Says 90 Percent of Materials Come From There

Australian home builder Scott Challen estimates that approximately 90 percent of materials used in constructing houses in Australia are sourced from China. Despite the cost advantages and benefits to profit margins, Challen believes it’s time to re-evaluate Australia-China trade relations, even suggesting tariffs to support local manufacturing. Challen, who leads the QHI Group in Queensland and runs an online building supplies business, highlighted the extensive use of Chinese components in homes.

• About 90 percent of building materials in Australia are estimated to come from China.
• Builder Scott Challen believes Australia should overhaul its trade ties with China.
• Consideration of tariffs to protect local manufacturing is suggested.
• Challen runs the QHI Group and an online building supplies business.