China Sees Surge in EU Cooling Exports and Tourism

The Government of China oversaw a dual economic surge in the first half of 2026, characterized by a spike in cooling appliance exports to the European Union and a record increase in inbound international tourism.

Driven by extreme heat waves, Chinese air conditioner exports to the EU rose 43.2%, with portable units surging 70%. Manufacturers Midea Group and Haier captured this market by developing energy-efficient products tailored to European regulations and the constraints of historic buildings. Midea developed the PortaSplit portable AC, while Haier launched the Pearl Premium series to meet strict energy standards.

Simultaneously, China received 22.91 million foreign visitors, a 20.4% year-on-year increase. This growth followed the implementation of unilateral visa-free policies for 50 countries and optimized tax refund services. International travelers have increasingly visited destinations such as Beidaihe and the Yaoxue indoor ski resort in Shanghai, the latter of which saw approximately 10,000 foreign tourists in July.

The trend, referred to on social media as China Cool, highlights the country's manufacturing capabilities and its strategic efforts to open its economy to global consumers and travelers.