London: Europe heatwave has raised demand for Chinese air-conditioners (AC) as record heat and repeated heatwaves intensify the need for home cooling solutions.
Western Europe has recorded its hottest June, with temperatures in parts of Germany crossing 40C (104F) during an intense heatwave. More heatwaves are expected before summer ends, increasing the need for home cooling solutions across several countries. This trend has driven a surge in Chinese AC sales, with imports rising to meet growing demand.
The Chinese company Midea Group (Midea) gained strong visibility in Europe through its PortaSplit model. The unit quickly sold out in multiple stores across several European markets due to rising demand. Resale listings appeared with prices reaching double or triple the original €750. A tracking platform called MideaFinder also emerged to monitor product availability.
Demand has centred on the unit’s design, which addresses structural restrictions common in European cities. Many buildings follow strict preservation rules that limit external modifications. The PortaSplit includes a lightweight outdoor component that can be placed outside a window without drilling. The model has been marketed as compatible with most European window types.
Midea has reported that sales across France, Spain, Germany and the UK have risen by more than 70 per cent year-on-year, according to Chinese state media Global Times. Midea’s Europe office has not confirmed these figures. The trend highlights changing consumer preferences in cooling solutions.
Other Chinese manufacturers have also recorded strong growth. TCL Technology Group Corporation (TCL Technology) stated that air-conditioner sales in France have increased by more than 300 per cent during the heatwave. Chinese AC brands are gaining traction as consumers seek efficient and flexible cooling solutions.
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