Global shipments of air conditioners are increasing because of rising temperatures, government energy policies, and economic growth, according to new analysis from global shipping line, ONE. This surge is reshaping trade routes from manufacturing hubs in Asia to North America, the Middle East, and Europe.
North America: Shipments to North America have grown at an 8% annual rate from 2015 to 2024. Rising summer temperatures in previously cooler regions, combined with U.S. incentives for energy-efficient technology, are driving demand. Manufacturers are diversifying production, with Southeast Asia’s share of exports rising from 6% in 2015 to 28% in 2024, partly due to U.S.-China trade tensions and rising labor costs.
Middle East: Shipments to the Middle East have grown 7% annually over the last decade. Extreme summer heat and rising incomes are fueling demand, further boosted by large urban development projects in Saudi Arabia that require air conditioning in all new buildings.
Europe: European shipments have increased at a 9% annual rate since 2015. Heatwaves and strict environmental regulations, such as the EU Eco-design Directive and F-Gas Regulation, are shifting demand toward energy-efficient, low-GWP air conditioners and heat pumps.
Overall, climate change, policy incentives, and urban development are expected to sustain global air conditioner shipment growth, with global sea freight volumes projected to rise at about 3% annually through 2035.
