The ongoing high temperatures in Madrid and nearby areas have boosted demand for cooling products, with Chinese-made air conditioners and mini-fans becoming the favorable choice as local people combat the sweltering heat.
Spain has been enduring persistent heatwaves since June, shattering records across the country as temperatures hit 43 degrees Celsius in Bilbao in the north and soared past 45 degrees Celsius in the southern province of Jaen.
At a store in Madrid operated by a Chinese cross-border e-commerce platform, staff noted a significant rise in demand for portable fans equipped with water misters.
"What customers want most is something with water, something that not only cools the air but also sprays water. That's why these are the most popular. As you can see, we have a wide range, and they sell out quickly, because customers come in just for this single item," said Antonela, a sales assistant at the store.
"I'm checking out this mini-fan because it seems well-priced. I want to buy one and I'm going to ask the staff how it works," said Jose, a customer.
On Tuesday, Spain's State Meteorological Agency issued an orange-level heat warning for high temperatures in 11 autonomous communities, including Madrid, Catalonia and Andalusia. The Ministry of Health also issued a high-temperature health risk warning for more than 1,000 municipalities across the country on the same day.
Chinese cooling products in hot demand amid sweltering heat in Madrid
