Bahrain's Air Conditioner Imports Soar in First Half of 2024
TDT | Manama
The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com
Report by H Naser
The Kingdom of Bahrain witnessed a significant surge in air conditioner imports during the first half of 2024, driven by the country's growing population and urban development.
Official data reveals that the number of imported air conditioning units reached 66,760, marking an 8.6% increase compared to the 61,500 units imported in the first half of 2023.
The value of air conditioner imports also saw a substantial jump, reaching BD10.47 million, a 42.1% increase compared to the BD7.37 million recorded during the same period in 2023. This growth reflects the rising demand for air conditioners in Bahrain, as residents seek relief from the scorching temperatures experienced throughout the year, not just during the summer months.
China Remains Top Supplier
China emerged as the leading supplier of air conditioners to Bahrain, with imports valued at BD2.23 million, representing 21.9% of the total imports in the first half of 2024. This represents a remarkable 106.5% growth compared to the same period last year. Bahrain imported 19,622 air conditioner units from China, indicating a 20% increase in quantity.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) followed closely, with imports reaching BD1.06 million, accounting for 10.2% of the total imports. This represents a 69.8% growth compared to the first half of 2023. The UAE supplied 7,021 units, demonstrating a significant increase in volume.
India came in third, with total imports reaching BD1.04 million, representing 9.9% of the total imports. While the quantity of imports from India increased by 9.9%, the overall value remained relatively stable compared to the previous year.
Saudi Arabia also witnessed significant growth in its air conditioner exports to Bahrain, with imports reaching BD894,997, a 148.5% increase compared to the same period in 2023. The quantity of imports from Saudi Arabia reached 12,345 units, representing a 25% increase in volume.
Centralised AC Systems in High Demand
Centralised air conditioning systems (Freon) were the most sought-after type, with imports valued at BD4.5 million, representing 43% of Bahrain's total imports in this sector. 33,000 units were imported, marking a 12% increase compared to the previous year.
Air conditioners with cooling units came in second in terms of value, with imports reaching BD3.5 million, representing 33.5% of the total imports. This category saw a 25% increase in the quantity imported, reaching 20,000 units.
Air conditioners with a capacity of 70,000 BTU or less constituted a significant portion of imports, with a value of BD2.9 million, representing 27.7% of the total imports. 13,760 units of these air conditioners were imported, a 15% increase compared to the first half of 2023.
May 2024: Peak Month for Imports
May 2024 emerged as the most active month for air conditioner imports, with imports valued at BD2.52 million, representing 24% of the total imports for the first half of the year. 21,346 units were imported in this month alone, reflecting the peak preparation for the summer season.
June 2024 followed closely, with imports valued at BD2.29 million, representing 21.9% of the total. 16,849 units were imported in this month, indicating continued strong demand.
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