China ac stockpile to hit 40 million units

CHINA: As reports of an economic slowdown strengthen, sources in China suggest the country’s stockpile of air conditioners will reach 40 million units this year.

Known locally as zombie air conditioning, many units are said to be two or three years old, with some even up to five years old.

Due to the long storage time, insiders express concern that stock, as well as being technologically-dated may have deteriorated due to moisture and other causes, damaging components and heightening the risk of refrigerant leaks.

Massive over production of products and a failure to meet consumer requirements are blamed.