How Europe’s Rush for Chinese Air Conditioners Exposes a Gap in Brussels’ Trade Policy The record breaking heatwave sweeping across Europe has brought a crisis of air conditioning shortages, with Europeans turning to Chinese manufacturers in droves.
At first glance, this seems like a classic case of supply and demand: hot weather + air conditioning shortages = European buyers seeking relief from China's factories.
However, beneath the surface lies a more complex story – one that highlights the EU's structural weaknesses when it comes to trade policy and consumer protection.