Chinese air conditioning manufacturers are experiencing a significant boost in sales to Europe, with a 20% growth reported in 2025, driven by unprecedented heatwaves and shifting consumer perceptions about cooling needs, according to a China Daily report. As scorching temperatures grip the continent, demand for air conditioners has surged, particularly in countries where such appliances were once considered a luxury. Industry leaders attribute this growth to extreme weather patterns, which have prompted European households and businesses to invest in smarter, more energy-efficient cooling solutions.
Only about 20% of European households currently have air conditioning, with penetration rates even lower in the United Kingdom at 5% and Germany at 3%, per China Daily. These low figures highlight a vast untapped market, especially as climate change intensifies summer heat. “Extreme weather is changing European consumers’ perception about air conditioning products and their willingness to purchase such items,” said Feng Xuezhi, general manager of Hisense Europe’s air conditioning division. Hisense, a major Chinese manufacturer, reported doubled sales in Hungary, a 20% increase in Italy, and a 42% rise in online sales in Spain during the first half of 2025.
The surge in demand has pushed Chinese companies to enhance their offerings, focusing on energy efficiency and smart technology to meet Europe’s stringent environmental standards. Younger consumers and middle-income households are leading the charge, showing greater acceptance of cooling devices, Feng noted. “The European market has very high requirements for energy efficiency and environmental protection, which sets higher standards for the design and technology of our products,” he added. Companies like Haier and Hisense are prioritizing intelligent, eco-friendly units to align with these demands, as reported by Xinhua Silk Road.
Key factors driving this sales growth include:
- Low AC Penetration: Only 20% of European homes have air conditioners, with the UK and Germany at 5% and 3%.
- Extreme Weather: Record-breaking heatwaves are increasing demand for cooling solutions.
- Consumer Shift: Younger and middle-income households are more open to purchasing AC units.
China’s air conditioning industry, which produces 70% of the world’s room air conditioners, is capitalizing on this opportunity, with exports reaching 85 million units in FY2024, a 29.1% year-on-year increase, per ChinaIOL.com. As Europe faces hotter summers, Chinese manufacturers are poised to play a critical role in meeting the continent’s growing need for cooling, while navigating challenges like rising raw material costs and global supply chain disruptions. This export boom marks a pivotal moment for the industry, with Europe emerging as a key market.
Sources: China Daily, Xinhua Silk Road, ChinaIOL.com
