China surpasses Germany and Japan in industrial robotics adoption density: report

China has surpassed Germany and Japan in the adoption of industrial robotics, according to the latest report by the International Federation of Robotics, reflecting the country’s efforts in pushing forward the use of automation technologies in manufacturing.

China recorded 470 robots per 10,000 employees in 2023, up from 402 units a year earlier. The country now ranks third in its ratio of robots to factory workers, after South Korea and Singapore, according to the World Robotics 2024 report published on Wednesday.

In comparison, the robot ratio per 10,000 employees was 429 for Germany and 419 for Japan.

China’s position in the ranks has risen quickly since it entered the top 10 in 2019. Within the past four years, the country managed to double its density of robots used.

The latest data reflects the success of China’s strategy to push forward industrial automation, as part of broader efforts to upgrade its industrial economy amid deepening tech rivalry with the US.