Foreign Affairs Forum

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Which country is leading in humanoid robotics

Introduction

China appears to be taking the lead in humanoid robotics, with significant advancements and investments in this field.

China’s Rapid Progress

China has made remarkable strides in humanoid robotics, particularly in 2024:

2024 is considered a breakthrough year for Chinese humanoid robots.

China now holds over two-thirds of the world’s robot-related patents.

The country is home to nearly 720,000 robot-related businesses.

Key Developments

Several notable achievements highlight China’s progress:

Advanced humanoid robots like Kuavo, Kepler Forerunner K2, and Tiangong were unveiled in 2024.

Chinese companies are pushing boundaries in technology, with robots designed for manufacturing, elder care, and even space exploration.

Humanoid robots are being integrated into industrial operations, such as UBTECH’s Walker S in automobile plants.

Market Leadership

China’s market position is strengthening:

The humanoid robot market in China is expected to grow to 75 billion yuan by 2029, accounting for 32.7% of the global total.

China’s humanoid robot market is projected to reach USD 3.5 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 40.2%.

Government Support and Strategy

The Chinese government is actively promoting the humanoid robot industry:

President Xi has called for mass production of humanoid robots by 2025.

China aims to lead the world in humanoid robotics by 2027.

The government has set goals to build a secure and reliable supply chain and innovation system by 2025.

Technological Advantages

China’s robotics industry benefits from several factors:

The country boasts a large market and the world’s best industrial supply chain, facilitating large-scale production of cost-effective products.

Chinese companies are investing heavily in key technologies like AI and sensors to strengthen the robotics industry.

There’s a strong focus on local development and production of essential components, ensuring self-sufficiency in the robotics sector.

Conclusion

While other countries like the United States, Japan, and South Korea are also making significant progress in humanoid robotics, China’s rapid advancements, government support, and market growth indicate that it is currently leading the race in this field.