Europeans Snap Up Chinese AC as Record Heat Scorches the Continent

A record-shattering heat wave across Europe has triggered a buying frenzy for Chinese portable air conditioners as local consumers seek immediate relief from the extreme weather.

Exports of portable air conditioners from China to Western Europe surged more than 70% year-on-year in the first five months of 2026, according to market tracker ChinaIOL. Models are selling out rapidly, with consumers relying on artificial intelligence tools and tracking websites to hunt for depleted stock at brick-and-mortar stores.