AI Humanoid Robots in Manufacturing: China Leads
China is accelerating the use of AI humanoid robots in manufacturing to address labor shortages, boost industrial output, and navigate economic challenges. Startups like AgiBot and Unitree are at the forefront, backed by over \$20 billion in government funding and support from a 1 trillion yuan (\$137 billion) national fund. These efforts are placing China at the center of a technological shift that could redefine the future of global manufacturing.
Strategic Push for AI Humanoid Robots in Manufacturing
The Chinese government has designated AI humanoid robots in manufacturing as a strategic priority. Through policies like the “Robotics+ Application Action Plan” and “Guiding Opinions on the Innovative Development of Humanoid Robots,” China aims to accelerate adoption in industries such as logistics, healthcare, and production lines.
Cities like Hangzhou and Ningbo are offering substantial subsidies and setting clear development targets. Ningbo, for instance, plans to establish a humanoid robot innovation center by 2027 to enhance local R\&D and commercialization.
Tech Advances Fuel AI Humanoid Robots in Manufacturing
Startups are translating policy into practice. AgiBot’s Shanghai facility trains robots for tasks like folding clothes and preparing food, producing valuable datasets to improve their AI models.
Meanwhile, Shenzhen-based Dobot has introduced the Dobot Atom—an affordable humanoid robot priced around \$27,500—making AI humanoid robots in manufacturing more viable for small and medium-sized enterprises.
According to projections, China’s humanoid robot market is expected to grow from \$2.9 billion in 2024 to \$46.3 billion by 2031, driven by a compound annual growth rate of 48.6%.
AI Humanoid Robots in Manufacturing Solve Labor Gaps
One of the major motivations behind this robotic revolution is China’s shrinking workforce. The aging population and declining birth rate are putting pressure on labor-intensive industries.
AI humanoid robots in manufacturing are being deployed to perform repetitive and physically demanding tasks. For example, UBTech’s Walker S is now assisting with quality inspections and logistics in automotive factories.
However, the rise of automation has sparked concern over job displacement. In response, Chinese lawmakers are reviewing unemployment insurance reforms to cushion potential disruptions.
China’s dominance in the supply of core robotic components—like sensors, actuators, and controllers—gives it a competitive advantage. As companies invest in generative AI and humanoid automation, AI humanoid robots in manufacturing may become central to global supply chain resilience.
From policy to production, China is rapidly turning theory into practice, positioning itself as a global leader in this transformative field.
Conclusion
China’s focus on AI humanoid robots in manufacturing is more than a technological experiment—it’s a strategic response to demographic and economic realities. With massive investments, strong government backing, and rising global influence, China is poised to lead the next industrial revolution.
