Europe's Heatwave Drives Demand for Chinese Air Conditioners
Monday, 2026/07/06196 words3 minutes2415 reads
A severe early-summer heatwave across Europe is driving more households to purchase air conditioners, creating strong demand for cooling products from Chinese and Asian manufacturers. Air conditioning remains relatively unusual in Europe, with only about 20% of households having such systems, according to the International Energy Agency.
During the June 2026 heatwave, Paris recorded 40.9 degrees Celsius, while Britain and Switzerland reported record June temperatures. Schools, workplaces, and public services were disrupted in several countries as people struggled with the extreme heat.
Chinese appliance maker Midea reported that demand for its PortaSplit model increased so rapidly that it sold out through some channels. Sales in German online stores rose 37% in May compared to the previous year, while shipments in France and Spain more than doubled, increasing by 108%. The PortaSplit is designed for European homes where installing traditional fixed air conditioners can be difficult or expensive.
South Korean and Japanese companies are also benefiting from the heat. Samsung Electronics and Mitsubishi Electric both reported strong sales growth across major European markets. The trend shows how climate change is affecting consumer habits, as products once considered unnecessary are now viewed as essential for health and comfort.
