China strengthened its position as the world’s largest market for industrial robots in 2025, accounting for nearly three-fifths of global installations, according to the World Robotics 2026 report released Thursday.

The country deployed 354,000 industrial robots last year, up 20 percent from 2024, with demand led by the electrical and electronics, automotive, and metal and machinery industries.

Chinese robot makers also continued to gain ground at home. Domestic suppliers accounted for 55 percent of installations, while more than half of the industrial robots installed in China have been supplied by Chinese brands since 2024.

The International Federation of Robotics expects China’s robotics market to continue expanding, with annual growth of 5 to 10 percent likely through 2029. Labour shortages and demographic changes are expected to support further adoption of automation.

Under the 15th Five-Year Plan, China is also advancing robotics through technological self-reliance and the upgrading of traditional industries, with its robotics sector moving towards physical AI and more intelligent industrial systems.