Daniel Slotta
Research expert covering Greater China
Robotics in China - statistics & facts
Following the global trend, automation is playing a larger role in the Chinese economy and society. Accelerated by an aging demographic and an evolving international, competitive environment, China plans to rely on robotics to solve some of its most pressing issues. Automated manufacturing can make up for a decreasing workforce. In addition, only machine precision can create the high-tech products that the country needs. Therefore, the Chinese leadership has codified the focus on developing new technologies in their latest Five Year Plan.
In contrast, service robots assist people outside the factory floor by taking on simple, repetitive, and dangerous tasks. In the real world, these tasks include food or package delivery, greeting customers, or taking on security tasks. While for customers outside of China interacting with a robot is a peculiar concept, however, Chinese restaurants, shops, and hotels already employ robots to interact with customers or deliver orders. In addition, police and security forces utilize robots for some mundane tasks, such as patrolling.
To make the most of the engineering and business forces in the country, Chinese leadership has taken a holistic approach over the last thirty years to build a national innovation system. Within that system, public institutions, public-private partnerships, and private organizations work together and in line with the national policies and towards national development objectives. Thereby, the government has created incentives via tax rebates as well as direct funding to facilitate development endeavors. However, as long the country does not achieve technological independence, it remains exposed to outside pressure and influences.
To build and to serve
The robotics industry consists of two main segments, the industrial robot, and the service robot segment. Industrial robots find application in the manufacturing industry, often in the shape of a single arm that can complete a broad variety of tasks which include welding and assembly. Industrial robots also take on a logistical role in the form of automated mobile robots and automated guided vehicles. All robotics in this segment work towards creating smart factories and increasing productivity while reducing costs.In contrast, service robots assist people outside the factory floor by taking on simple, repetitive, and dangerous tasks. In the real world, these tasks include food or package delivery, greeting customers, or taking on security tasks. While for customers outside of China interacting with a robot is a peculiar concept, however, Chinese restaurants, shops, and hotels already employ robots to interact with customers or deliver orders. In addition, police and security forces utilize robots for some mundane tasks, such as patrolling.
Just a piece of a larger puzzle
Relying on automation is only one key aspect of China’s comprehensive strategy. According to government statements and policy, the robotics industry has to work in synergy with other high-tech areas to achieve its maximal potential. Currently, companies still heavily depend on foreign technology and companies. Therefore, robotics manufacturers must rely on other sectors as well because they need the software for programming, semiconductors for computing power, and hardware for servomotors and reduction gears.To make the most of the engineering and business forces in the country, Chinese leadership has taken a holistic approach over the last thirty years to build a national innovation system. Within that system, public institutions, public-private partnerships, and private organizations work together and in line with the national policies and towards national development objectives. Thereby, the government has created incentives via tax rebates as well as direct funding to facilitate development endeavors. However, as long the country does not achieve technological independence, it remains exposed to outside pressure and influences.
