Service robots took centre stage last week during Phase 1 of the 138th China Import and Export Fair (Canton Fair), captivating global buyers with their cutting-edge capabilities and futuristic designs. Held in Guangzhou, the fair – now continuing with its subsequent phases – drew a record-breaking 32,000 exhibitors from around the world.

Phase 1’s highlight, the Service Robots Zone, featured 46 leading companies unveiling innovations such as humanoid, exoskeleton, patrol, cleaning, and educational robots. Designed to enhance everyday life, these robots are redefining efficiency in sectors such as healthcare, hospitality, and emergency response. A massage robot applying traditional Chinese physical therapy techniques was a particular crowd favourite.

For the first time, a Smart Medical Zone also showcased surgical robots, intelligent monitoring systems, and wearable technologies. With China’s service robot production surging by 25.5% in the first half of 2025, Phase 1 of the fair underscored the nation’s accelerating momentum in intelligent manufacturing.

Source: China Central Television