A sign shows the temperature reaching 40 degrees Celsius, Lisbon, Portugal, July 4, 2026. (Photo: VCG)
As a severe heatwave continues to scorch Europe, it is not only rewriting weather records but also driving a huge surge in Chinese-made cooling products.
Citing data from China's customs, in June alone, China's exports of air conditioners increased by 72.8% year on year. In the first five months, China's exports of air-conditioning units to France, the Netherlands and Belgium more than doubled from last year.
"Installation costs are very high in Europe, and external wall-mounted units are often not permitted," said Hu Benchun, director of Ningbo Heallux International Trading Co., in an interview with CMG.
"Chinese-made portable air conditioners offer an alternative for Europeans to stay cool," Hu added.
Staff at an air conditioner production line in Fuyang, east China's Anhui Province, June 4, 2026. (Photo: VCG)
Another key draw for European consumers is the balance between cool air and low-energy consumption of Chinese-made air conditioners, as Chinese manufacturers consistently reduce energy consumption with technology to meet global market demand and regulations.
Commenting on the surge in popularity of Chinese-made cooling products, Mao Ning, spokesperson of China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said at a regular press conference on Monday that both consumers and suppliers benefit in China-EU trade.
"Products that meet market demand and offer good quality at competitive prices will naturally win favor," said Mao.