The latest trade analysis conducted by EUROPUR reveals an important shift in the European mattress market over recent years. Since 2020, imports of cellular mattresses from China have doubled in both weight and value, while spring and other mattress types have seen a fourfold increase in kilos and nearly 300% rise in euro value since 2019. As a result, China now accounts for 8 out of 10 imported cellular mattresses by weight and 75% by value within the EU market (see Chart 1). Across all mattress categories, imports from China surged from €118 million to €314 million — even as average prices per kilo declined, reflecting intensifying price competition. In total, mattress imports from all countries to the EU increased by 105% in weight and 95% in value since 2020, with China alone responsible for 6 out of 10 kilos and 4 out of 10 euros of those imports in 2024.
Chart 1. Imports of Cellular Mattresses to the EU, in EUR (2019 – 2024).
This sharp rise in imports, combined with a notable decline in exports to the United States due to anti-dumping measures (a loss of nearly €100 million), has resulted in a trade deficit for this product category for the first time in at least a decade (see Chart 2). Historically delivering an annual surplus of around €250 million, the sector closed 2024 with a deficit in euro terms and a second successive year of trade deficit in kilos. The outlook for 2025 raises additional concerns, with sustained losses in the U.S. market and increasing global trade tensions likely to encourage non-EU exporters to target the European market to offset disruptions elsewhere. This scenario signals significant challenges for EU mattress and PU foam producers, who must navigate intensified competition, falling prices, and growing reliance on imports from third countries.
Chart 2. Mattress Trade Balance in the EU, in EUR (2019 – 2024).
For more information, please contact Theodoros Mardas (t.mardas@europur.org).