China continues its unparalleled ascent in the global industrial robot market, solidifying its position as the world’s leading adopter and producer of automation technology. According to the latest World Robotics 2025 report by the International Federation of Robotics (IFR), China’s industrial robot stock reached a record 2,027,000 units in 2024, accounting for more than half of the global demand. This milestone underscores the nation’s strategic push towards modernizing its manufacturing base and its growing prowess in advanced technology.
Record Installation Figures Highlight Automation Drive
Annual installations in China saw a significant surge, climbing to 295,000 units in 2024. This represents a 7 percent increase from the previous year and marks the highest level ever recorded, constituting 54 percent of global installations. Globally, 542,000 industrial robots were installed in 2024, more than double the number from a decade ago, and marking the fourth consecutive year installations exceeded 500,000 units. The total number of operational industrial robots worldwide reached an all-time high of 4,664,000 units in 2024, a 9 percent increase from the prior year.
Domestic Manufacturers Ascend as Market Share Grows
A notable shift in the market is the increasing dominance of Chinese robot manufacturers. For the first time, domestic Chinese robot makers sold more units in their home country than foreign competitors, capturing a domestic market share of 57 percent in 2024, up from 47 percent in 2023. This represents a dramatic increase from the approximately 28 percent share observed over the past decade, signaling a successful drive towards indigenization and technological self-sufficiency. This trend aligns with national strategies aimed at developing core automation technology and reducing reliance on foreign suppliers.
Key Sectors Fueling Demand
The electrical and electronics sector remains the primary driver of industrial robot demand in China, accounting for 83,000 units installed in 2024. This sector alone accounted for 62 percent of global installations within the electrical and electronics industry in 2023. The automotive industry follows as the second-largest customer, with 57,200 units installed in 2024. While the EU’s automotive sector saw a decline in robot installations, China’s continued investment highlights its role as a major global production hub for vehicles and electronics. Domestic suppliers are also expanding their reach into sectors like food processing, textiles, and wood products.
Global Implications and Future Outlook
China’s leadership in industrial robotics has profound implications for the global economy and the future of manufacturing. The nation’s substantial investments in automation technology and government support through initiatives like ‘Made in China 2025’ have propelled it to the forefront. This advancement is not only transforming China’s own industrial landscape but also influencing global trends towards automation and the increasing role of ‘intelligent agents’ in production.
Despite global macroeconomic headwinds, the IFR anticipates continued robust growth in the robotics industry. China is expected to remain the world’s largest market, with potential for 10 percent average annual growth until 2028. The ongoing development of advanced robotics technology, including AI, 5G integration, and smarter control systems, will further shape the automated factory of the future. This news signifies a critical juncture in global manufacturing technology, with China firmly establishing itself as a dominant force in the industrial robotics revolution.
