The 2017 China Robotics Innovation Summit recently kicked off in Guangzhou, bringing together industry leaders and experts to discuss the future of robotics in China. Li Yizhong, a former Minister of the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology and president of the China Federation of Industrial Economics, shared insights on the current state and challenges facing China's industrial robot sector, as well as strategies for accelerating its growth.
Market demand for industrial robots continues to rise sharply. From January to July this year, China produced over 70,000 units, marking a year-on-year increase of more than 50%. Industry forecasts suggest that sales will reach 110,000 units in 2017, with projections of surpassing 200,000 by 2020—nearly double the 2015 level. By 2020, the total number of industrial robots in use is expected to hit one million.
Li Yizhong noted that the technological content of Chinese industrial robots has steadily improved. Domestic manufacturers have largely mastered key technologies such as ontology design, control system development, and kinematics planning. In particular, micro-control and microprocessor technologies are advancing rapidly.
The industry's integration into manufacturing has significantly enhanced productivity, reduced labor costs, and enabled precision production. Despite being in an early growth phase, the sector is already generating strong economic returns. The average profit margin for robot manufacturers is around 15%, far exceeding the 6% average seen in the broader manufacturing industry.
However, challenges remain. Li highlighted that core competitiveness is still lacking. Many domestic robots are limited to three- to five-axis models, with 85% of high-end six-axis robots coming from foreign brands. Smart applications are still in their infancy. Additionally, robot density in China’s manufacturing sector is low—only 40 robots per 10,000 workers, compared to over 15% in developed countries. Performance gaps in accuracy, longevity, and reliability persist.
Another issue is the lack of focus on R&D. With nearly 1,000 robot manufacturers in China, many are engaged in assembly and sub-processing rather than innovation, leading to repeated efforts and inefficiencies.
In terms of successful practices, Guangdong has emerged as a leader, accounting for a quarter of the country's robot output. A relatively complete industrial chain—including R&D, manufacturing, and service—has been formed. Key lessons include government guidance, nurturing leading enterprises, establishing public service platforms, and increasing financial support.
To accelerate development, Li proposed four main strategies: strengthening government planning to avoid duplication, enhancing R&D to break through core technologies, promoting integrated applications across industries, and encouraging international collaboration to boost domestic brand presence.
With these measures in place, China aims to solidify its position in the global robotics landscape and drive sustainable growth in the sector.
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