China installs record 295,000 robots as workforce shrinks

Beijing: Due to a decline in population, China installed 295,000 new industrial robots in factories last year.

According to Chinese media, experts say the rapid spread of robotic technology is helping to offset the labor shortage caused by an aging population and is further strengthening China’s manufacturing sector.

The International Federation of Robotics (IFR), in its 2025 report, stated that the number of active industrial robots in China has reached 2.027 million—the highest in any country in the world.

In 2024, out of the 542,000 new robots installed globally, more than half were deployed in China. These robots are replacing humans in tasks such as welding car frames, assembling electronic devices, and moving heavy goods.

Experts also noted that humanoid robots—robots with human-like appearance and functions—represent the next stage of industrial advancement. Although the exact number of orders for these robots is unclear, several companies have moved beyond the research phase and are now shifting towards mass commercial production.

According to Chinese media, in August of this year, a company in Guangdong secured an order for 10,000 humanoid robots—the largest order in the industry’s history. These robots are intended to assist in elderly care across China.

Statistics show that China’s population declined by 0.1% last year, while installations of industrial robots rose by 5%, resulting in 295,000 new units—which accounts for 54% of all newly installed robots worldwide.

Japan ranked second with 45,000 robots installed, followed by the United States in third place with 34,200 installations. Globally, the total number of robot installations reached 4.664 million in 2024, marking a 9% increase compared to the previous year.