Beijing: China is rapidly expanding the use of industrial robots in factories as the country seeks to increase productivity, address an ageing workforce and strengthen its position in advanced manufacturing. More than two million robots are already operating in Chinese factories, the largest industrial robot workforce in the world.
China Expands Industrial Robot Production
China is also becoming a major global producer of industrial robots, with more than half of the world’s industrial robots now manufactured in the country. Factories are increasingly using robots for welding, painting, lifting, assembly and other repetitive tasks.
At a factory operated by CRP Technology in Chengdu, engineers are developing robotic systems designed to perform increasingly complex industrial tasks. The company employs about 300 people and has produced customised robotic arms for industries including automobiles, electronics and wind turbines.
China’s manufacturing base gives its robotics industry access to domestic supplies of motors, batteries, electronics, gears and sensors. The country is also developing vocational institutions to train workers in robotics, artificial intelligence and related technologies.
Automation Raises Workforce Concerns
The expansion of automation comes as China faces demographic pressures. Official estimates indicate that more than one-third of the country’s population could be over 60 by 2035, while some estimates project a significant decline in the working-age population over the coming decade.
Automation could help manufacturers compensate for labour shortages, but the transition also poses risks for workers. Around 120 million people remain employed in China’s manufacturing sector, raising concerns that faster automation could reduce demand for some jobs.
At electric-vehicle manufacturer Leapmotor’s Hangzhou facility, robots are used throughout production, including stamping, welding and painting. The company says some areas have already reached full automation, although workers remain involved in final inspections and other tasks.