China Drives Robot Industry Boom Across Manufacturing, Eldercare Sectors

China is poised to enter large-scale commercialization of robots guided by vision- and language-based models starting in 2026, following advances in foundational technologies and mass production capabilities. Chongqing has developed a comprehensive robot industry chain, producing over 60,000 robot units in 2024 with an output value exceeding $5 billion, reflecting strong regional growth in robotics manufacturing. The robotics sector includes innovations such as explosion-proof wheeled and quadruped robots, designed for industrial and safety applications. Concurrently, China is promoting eldercare robots as part of national advanced manufacturing strategies to address its aging population, though expert analysis suggests policy motivations are driven more by economic growth and manufacturing ambitions than by a thorough assessment of eldercare needs. Robotics also feature in other sectors, such as food service, where robots capable of making ice cream and coffee are gaining attention at exhibitions, highlighting robotics integration across various industries. Despite progress, challenges remain in improving humanoid robots' adaptability and efficiency compared to traditional industrial robots, as noted by experts.