As the final weeks of winter slip away and temperatures begin to climb, Bangladesh is witnessing a significant uptick in demand for air conditioners. Industry experts attribute this surge not only to the impending heatwave season but also to shifting consumer preferences driven by rising disposable incomes and urbanization.
With summer just around the corner, retailers across the country are reporting record pre-orders for AC. From budget-friendly options to high-end inverter models, consumers are increasingly prioritizing comfort as scorching temperatures become the norm during Bangladesh鈥檚 notoriously humid summers.
A Market on the Rise
The air conditioner market in Bangladesh has grown exponentially over the past decade, fueled by rapid economic development and an expanding middle class. According to industry reports, annual sales have increased by nearly 25% year-on-year, with projections indicating sustained growth through 2025.
鈥淏uying an AC is no longer considered a luxury,鈥� said Sajedur Rahman, Director of ., one of the leading electronics retailers in Bangladesh. 鈥淚t has become essential for many households, especially in urban areas where space constraints and rising temperatures make life unbearable without proper cooling solutions.鈥�
This shift is particularly evident among young professionals and nuclear families living in densely populated cities like Dhaka, Chittagong, and Sylhet. With more dual-income households able to afford an AC, brands ranging from local manufacturers like Walton to international giants such as LG, Samsung, and Gree are capitalizing on the opportunity.
Drivers Behind the Demand
Several interconnected factors explain the growing popularity of in Bangladesh. One of the primary drivers is rapid urbanization. Cities are expanding at breakneck speeds, with millions migrating from rural areas in search of better opportunities. This influx has led to densely populated neighborhoods where concrete structures replace green spaces, amplifying the urban heat island effect.
鈥淯rban living conditions in Bangladesh are becoming increasingly unbearable without proper cooling solutions,鈥� said Al Imran, Deputy Manager (Purchase & Procurement) at Star Tech Ltd. 鈥淥ur customers tell us they鈥檙e not just buying AC for comfort鈥攖hey鈥檙e buying them for survival during the hottest months.鈥�
Climate change further compounds the issue. Meteorologists predict that 2025 will bring even hotter summers than previous years, with temperatures expected to peak above 40掳C (104掳F) in many regions. Last year鈥檚 prolonged heatwaves pushed hospitals to report spikes in heatstroke cases, prompting health experts to recommend indoor cooling systems as a preventive measure.
Another critical factor is the steady rise in disposable incomes among the middle class. Over the past decade, Bangladesh has experienced robust economic growth, enabling more families to invest in that were once considered luxuries. Young professionals, especially those working in tech hubs or multinational corporations, are prioritizing quality of life鈥攁nd air conditioners play a central role in achieving that.
鈥淭he reality is simple: Summers are getting hotter, and people need relief,鈥� added Imran. 鈥淎t Star Tech, we鈥檝e seen inquiries about portable and inverter ACs double compared to last year. Consumers want flexibility, efficiency, and ease of use.鈥�
Technological advancements have also bolstered demand. Energy-efficient inverter air conditioners, which consume up to 60% less electricity than traditional models, are gaining traction among cost-conscious buyers. A typical inverter AC consumes around 1-1.5 units per hour, depending on settings and room size. This efficiency makes them an attractive option for households looking to balance comfort with cost savings.
Challenges Ahead
While the market shows promise, challenges remain. High electricity costs and frequent power outages pose significant barriers for potential buyers, particularly in rural areas. Although inverter technology offers some relief by reducing energy consumption, its higher upfront cost often deters price-sensitive customers.
Environmental concerns also loom large. Many older AC units rely on refrigerants that contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Environmental advocates are urging both manufacturers and consumers to adopt eco-friendly alternatives, though adoption rates remain low due to cost considerations.
Installation and maintenance are also common queries among first-time buyers. Professional installation is highly recommended to ensure optimal performance and safety. Popular AC shops like Star Tech, offer free or discounted installation services with every AC purchase. Regular cleaning of filters every two weeks and annual servicing by certified technicians are crucial to maintaining efficiency and extending the lifespan of the AC unit.
Retailers Gear Up for Summer Rush
In anticipation of peak AC buying season, retailers are ramping up inventory and launching promotional campaigns. Discounts, installment payment plans, and free installation services are being widely advertised to attract buyers.
鈥淲e鈥檙e expecting a record-breaking season this year,鈥� said Sabbir Akhter, Marketing Manager at Star Tech Ltd. 鈥淐onsumers are increasingly savvy鈥攖hey鈥檙e looking for products that combine innovation, durability, and value for money. Our goal is to deliver exactly that.鈥�
To cater to diverse customer preferences in the summer season, Star Tech has expanded its AC collection to include cutting-edge features like smart connectivity, voice control, and advanced air purification systems. These innovations appeal to tech-savvy millennials and young professionals seeking modern conveniences.
Looking Forward
As Bangladesh prepares for another sweltering summer, the AC market stands poised for continued expansion. However, stakeholders emphasize the need for sustainable practices to mitigate environmental impacts and ensure affordability for all income groups.
For now, however, the message from consumers is clear: Comfort takes precedence when the mercury rises. And as winter fades into memory, millions of Bangladeshis are already planning how to keep cool in the months ahead.
