Prices surged by up to 60% as Europe's refrigerants undergo a comprehensive price hike

2026 05/21

        Recently, Refrigeration Fast News reporters observed significant fluctuations in the European refrigerant market, with prices surging sharply. Leading UK refrigeration and air conditioning wholesalers officially announced that starting May 20, prices for several mainstream refrigerants would be substantially increased. Among them, R410A and R407C rose by as much as 60%, R134a by 35%, and R32 by 30%. Prices across all categories rose, exerting notable pressure on the local refrigeration industry supply chain.

 

     This price hike is not a short-term market fluctuation but stems from the full implementation of European fluorinated gas regulations, coupled with the continuous tightening of HFC quotas, which has persistently constrained market supply. According to industry sources, the current market is facing significant supply constraints and external policy volatility. In the future, multiple suppliers may follow suit in raising prices, and the industry-wide price surge will continue.

      Under the current regulations in Europe and the UK, high-GWP refrigerants are being steadily phased out and reduced. Although R410A can still be used for equipment maintenance and repair through recycling, its usage and procurement costs will continue to rise against the backdrop of gradual phase-out policies. More importantly, Europe's HFC quota will be further reduced by 23% in 2027, which means refrigerant supply will become even tighter, and high prices will remain the norm. 

    Overall, the European refrigerant market has fully entered a new phase of "reduction, price hikes, and shortages." For domestic refrigeration, air conditioning, and heat pump exporters, overseas cost pressures continue to climb, and supply chain uncertainties have significantly increased. Industry experts recommend that relevant enterprises secure supplies in advance, implement cost controls, and prepare early for subsequent market changes.