Yiwu International Trade City has entered "crazy order-taking mode" as demand for heat-relief products surges across Europe, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia amid prolonged high temperatures, according to a report on August 14.
Chinese-style folding fans have become particularly popular in France, with one Yiwu merchant shipping an Eiffel Tower-themed fan by air to Paris. Merchants say European customers use folding fans both for cooling and as fashion accessories.
Spain and Italy are core markets, with some stores receiving four to five overseas buyers daily and orders scheduled through the second half of the year. Stores can also customize designs and quantities based on client needs.
Beyond fans, innovative cooling products such as umbrellas with built-in fans and spray nozzles are also selling well. One Yiwu umbrella merchant said the spray-fan umbrella was originally developed based on a request from a Middle Eastern customer and has since become an export hit.
The trend underscores Yiwu's agility in responding to global consumer demand and its role as a leading supplier of seasonal and lifestyle products.
Source: Guangzhou Elderly Care Industry Center, August 14, 2026
