European Heatwave Fuels 43.2% Surge in Chinese Air Conditioner Exports in H1 2026

Air conditioner

CHINA: China's air conditioner exports to the European Union increased by 43.2% year-on-year to US$3.76 billion in the first half of 2026, driven by an unprecedented heatwave across Europe and a significant gap between local production capacity and market demand. Chinese manufacturers, including Midea, Haier, Gree, Hisense, TCL, and Changhong, have expanded their presence in the region by offering energy-efficient and easy-to-install cooling solutions tailored to European regulations and consumer preferences. The surge has benefited the entire Chinese air conditioning value chain, spanning finished products, components, raw materials, logistics, and cross-border e-commerce, while increasing the market share of Chinese brands in Europe to 41%. 

Source: European Central Station