First-quarter commercial property and construction monitors point to an easing in regional headwinds, the least pessimistic outturns since the start of 2023, says RICS. Australia and New Zealand remain the most affected. In other news, RICS has recently updated its requirements for Direct Entry to MRICS, now known as the Recognition of Professional Qualification (RPQ) pathway.
The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), is a leading global professional body working in the public interest to advance knowledge, uphold standards, and inspire current and future professionals.
Members help to create and protect built and natural environments that are sustainable, resilient and inclusive for all.
RICS staff work with members, collaborating to support them in their practice and build connections. The institution sets qualifications and independently regulates chartered professionals and firms, building trust and confidence with clients and consumers.
It has recently updated its requirements for Direct Entry to MRICS, now known as the Recognition of Professional Qualification (RPQ) pathway. Under the new update, NZIQS Registered Members now need five years of relevant experience post-membership (previously 10 years) to be eligible to apply.
APAC report
The Q1 2026 RICS Global Commercial Property & Construction monitors for APAC point to a further easing in the regional headwinds that have weighed on activity over recent quarters.
While headline metrics remain in negative territory, the latest readings represent the least pessimistic outturns since the start of 2023. Anecdotal feedback, nevertheless, highlights the ongoing Iran war as a dominant overlay on global sentiment, although its translation into local market conditions has so far been uneven. Across APAC, Australia and New Zealand are visibly more affected than the rest of the region.
About RICS
With a heritage of over 150 years, the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) sets the standard for over 130,000 members and candidates operating in the development and management of land, real estate, construction and infrastructure across more than 140 countries globally.
Trusted data and insight guides decision makers and governments help to shape public policy, deliver positive societal change and provide a foundation for confident markets.
Members influence the quality of lives, underpin societies and drive economies. Everything RICS does supports its current and future membership to uphold, advance and inspire professionalism for the benefit of society.
More about RICS
