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Goldman Sachs

May 20, 2026

China Consumer Durables: Appliance Tracker

Sector ReportEquitiesMacro Economic IndicatorsCommoditiesConsumer Discretionary

April 2026 data indicates weakening domestic demand for Chinese appliances and mixed export trends, with significant pressure on AC shipments and rising raw material costs.

Key Takeaways

  • 1.China's domestic appliance demand weakened in April 2026, with retail sales falling 15% yoy due to a high base and recent price hikes.
  • 2.Appliance exports showed mixed performance; while overall growth resumed, Air Conditioning (AC) export shipments declined 12% yoy.
  • 3.Copper prices surged (+34% yoy) and shipping rates increased, creating potential cost pressures for manufacturers.

Table of Contents

  • Ex-factory shipments weakened in Apr
  • Retail sales growth moderated in Apr on a higher base
  • Overseas RVC and robotic lawn mower growth remained robust in Apr
  • Residential property completions and sales decline both narrowed slightly in Apr
  • Copper/CRC/aluminum increased/stayed stable/pulled back in the past month
  • Sector performance and valuation
  • Disclosure Appendix

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Authors

Nicolas YiCecilia Tang

Securities

000333.SZ689009.SS000651.SZ600690.SS000921.SZ688169.SS

Themes

Domestic Demand PressureExport Resilience vs. Product VolatilityRising Raw Material Costs

Regions

Asia PacificEuropeNorth AmericaChinaUnited States