More and more Chinese companies report strong half-year sales in Europe. Chinese electric appliance manufacturer Midea achieved impressive growth in both revenue and profit in the first half of this year, according to its newly released fiscal report, with its air conditioners witnessing outstanding sales in Europe. Separately, a Chinese construction machinery manufacturer reported a robust overseas performance, with an increasing footprint across Europe. As more Chinese companies post rising sales and forge closer ties with local partners in Europe, the trend highlights the growing strength of Chinese enterprises and their strong commitment to the “In Europe, For Europe” strategy, a Chinese expert said.
Midea reported operating revenue of CNY261.05 billion in the first half of this year, a year-on-year increase of 3.5%, and net profit attributable to shareholders of CNY26.45 billion, up 1.7%. Midea Group's revenue growth was mainly driven by growth in overseas markets, which contributed CNY113.13 billion, a year-on-year increase of 5.5%, compared with an increase of 1.9% for the Chinese mainland market. Sales and revenue of the PortaSplit portable split air conditioner, a customized product developed to meet the specific needs of the European market, surged by more than 200% year-on-year in the first half of 2026, becoming a hit in Europe and successfully breaking through in the broader consumer market.
Zoomlion reported first-half operating revenue of CNY27.14 billion, up 9.17% year-on-year, with both domestic and overseas businesses posting gains. Overseas revenue surged 12.45% to CNY15.54 billion. The company said that as of end-June, it had nearly 7,000 local employees overseas. Its smart manufacturing facility in Hungary was completed and put into operation, while its German plant was expanded and upgraded. Chinese companies have become more competitive globally after years of deep-rooted presence overseas. In Europe, as long as they pinpoint market needs and stay localized, they can perform well even when the business environment gets challenging, Cui Hongjian, Professor at the Academy of Regional and Global Governance at Beijing Foreign Studies University, told the Global Times. With the strategy of “In Europe and For Europe,” Chinese enterprises in Europe are creating jobs and generating tax revenue for local communities, facts that speak for themselves, Cui said. “Rejecting Chinese investment would come at a high cost: not just the capital, but the welfare, jobs, and social stability that come with it,” Cui added.
