In 2022, China secured its position as the global leader in industrial automation, accounting for over half of the world's total industrial robot installations, as per a finding by the International Federation of Robotics. Even now, the country continues to be a strong contender in the production of industrial robots.
"New productive forces"
At this week's World Robot Conference in Beijing, the country's dominance was on full display as more than two dozen Chinese companies unveiled advanced humanoid robots designed for factory and warehouse operations. The event also highlighted China's growing expertise in producing the precision components essential for building these cutting-edge machines, further solidifying its stronghold in the industry.
China's push into the emerging industry draws from the formula behind its initial EV drive more than a decade ago: government support, ruthless price competition from a wide field of new entrants, and a deep supply chain.
"China's humanoid robot industry demonstrates clear advantages in supply-chain integration (and) mass production capabilities," said Arjen Rao, an analyst at China-based LeadLeo Research Institute.
The robotics effort is backed by President Xi Jinping's policy of developing "new productive forces" in technology – a point made in brochures for this week's event.
The city of Beijing launched a $1.4 billion state-backed fund for robotics in January, while Shanghai announced in July plans to set up a $1.4 billion humanoid industry fund.
The robots on display this week draw from some of the same domestic suppliers that rode the EV wave, including battery and sensor manufacturers.
