China’s robotics sector is projected to grow from US$47 billion in 2024 to US$108 billion by 2028, reflecting a 23% annual growth rate, according to Morgan Stanley.

China currently holds around 40% of the global robotics market and is considered a major hub for innovation in the sector.

In May 2024, China’s industrial robot production surged 35.5% year-on-year to 69,056 units, while service robot output rose 13.8%, according to official data.

Robotics is a key component of China’s “Made in China 2025” strategy, with the country leading global industrial robot installations.

Drones make up the largest robotics segment in China, while humanoid robots are expected to grow rapidly, potentially reaching 302 million global units by 2050.

🔗 Source: South China Morning Post

🧠 Food for thought

1️⃣ China’s robotic revolution represents a decade-long strategic success story

China’s current robotics dominance comes from consistent government-led investment and planning rather than market forces alone.

In 2016, China first became the world’s largest market for industrial robots with 87,000 units sold, a position it has strengthened each year since1.

The “Made in China 2025” initiative set specific targets to increase robot density from just 68 robots per 10,000 workers in 2016 to 150 by 2020, while also aiming to increase domestic manufacturers’ market share from 31% to over 50%2.

These targets have been largely achieved, with China now ranking third globally in robot density at 470 robots per 10,000 employees, and Chinese manufacturers capturing 47% of the domestic market as of 202334.

China’s robotics ecosystem now spans from industrial automation to consumer technologies, creating a complete supply chain that has dramatically reduced costs while increasing innovation speed.

2️⃣ China’s transition from world’s factory to robotics innovation hub is reshaping global manufacturing

China has transformed from primarily importing robotics technology to becoming a major innovator and exporter in just one decade.

In 2016, foreign manufacturers dominated China’s domestic robot market, but by 2023, Chinese robot manufacturers had captured 47% of their home market, reflecting significant advances in domestic engineering and production capabilities23.