China’s industrial robot sales shrink for first time in 5 years on ‘tightening demand’

Total industrial robot deliveries this year are estimated to reach 300,000 units, down 5 per cent from 2023

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China had 470 robots per 10,000 employees in 2023, up from 402 units a year earlier. Photo: Shutterstock

Ann Caoin Shanghai

Published: 6:30pm, 23 Dec 2024

China’s industrial robot sales are expected to record its first decline in five years amid sluggish demand in the manufacturing industry, new market research shows.

The country’s total industrial robot deliveries this year are estimated to reach 300,000 units, down 5 per cent from 2023, according to the latest report from market consultancy Shenzhen Gaogong Industrial Institute (GGII).

That decline was attributed by the report to the “obviously tightening demand” from the manufacturing industry, especially the automobile and renewable energy sectors, as companies slowed down fixed-asset investments amid increased pressure on profitability.

The lower-than-expected volume of industrial robot sales marks the first decline since 2020, according to GGII data. The institute previously forecast a record 320,000-unit sales this year.

“Industrial robot manufacturers are experiencing a test of survival,” the report said. It pointed out that the slow demand has led to a price war in the industry.

A robotic arm from Siasun Robot & Automation, one of China’s largest industrial robotics firms, is on display at a recent edition of the country’s World Intelligent Manufacturing Conference. Photo: Shutterstock

This year’s sales decline has also come at a time when China already surpassed Germany and Japan in the adoption of industrial robots.