AC Makers Brace for Q4 Demand Recovery in India Following Monsoon and GST Slowdown
- brg_news_room
- Nov 24
- 1 min read
India: Room air-conditioner sales were impacted by a prolonged monsoon and muted retail demand, offsetting the GST reduction from 28% to 18%, with companies now targeting a recovery in the Q4 of FY26. Blue Star reported strong sales earlier in the season, but demand later slowed, leaving inventory at around 65 days of sales versus the ideal 45 days. Voltas noted subdued retail offtake due to the GST-led higher channel inventory, expecting major traction from early 2026 alongside the BEE energy efficiency transition. Whirlpool India saw a market share decline in Q2 after five quarters of growth. Manufacturers anticipate inventory liquidation and renewed demand with the onset of summer, production normalization, and strategic alignment in H2 FY26.
Source: The Hindu Businessline
