Chinese Air Conditioning Gains Ground in Europe as ECFR Warns of Strategic Dependency

Chinese Air Conditioning Gains Ground in Europe as ECFR Warns of Strategic Dependency

EUROPE: Chinese air conditioning manufacturers are rapidly expanding their presence in Europe as rising temperatures drive demand for cooling, according to the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR). Chinese exports of air conditioning units to the EU rose 43% year-on-year in the first half of 2026, while Chinese brands increased their market share to 41%, up from 27% in 2023. ECFR warns that growing reliance on Chinese suppliers could create a new strategic dependency as cooling becomes increasingly essential. It recommends that Europe maintain trade with China while developing alternative suppliers, domestic capabilities and diversified cooling technologies.

Source: Informat.ro