Humanoid and Industrial Robots Boost China’s Industry Amid Shrinking Population

China’s factories installed 295,000 new industrial robots in 2024, reinforcing the nation’s manufacturing strength despite a declining population. The increase in automation is helping offset labor shortages and maintain China’s competitive edge in global manufacturing.

According to the 2025 International Federation of Robotics (IFR) World Robotics Report, China now operates a record 2.027 million industrial robots, the highest number in the world. More than half of the 542,000 new robots installed globally last year were in Chinese factories. These machines perform a variety of tasks, including welding car frames, assembling electronics, and transporting heavy loads, reducing the impact of demographic changes on the workforce.

China’s population has declined for the third consecutive year, dropping by 1.39 million in 2024, or about 0.1 percent. While the shrinking population has raised concerns over labor availability, the widespread adoption of robotics is helping maintain productivity. Professor Gao Xudong from Tsinghua University stated that repetitive tasks are increasingly handled by machines, while human creativity remains essential for complex work. He noted that improvements in workforce education combined with automation allow China’s manufacturing industry to remain competitive.

Globally, total industrial robot installations rose by 9 percent in 2024, reaching 4.664 million units. Japan added 44,500 new robots, and the United States installed 34,200, highlighting China’s dominance in this field. The growing role of automation is particularly important as the country prepares for a future with fewer available workers.

China is also advancing in humanoid robotics, which mimic human movements and can perform more complex tasks. While detailed figures are limited, companies are moving rapidly from research to commercial deployment. In August 2024, Tiantai Robot, a Guangdong-based company, received an order for 10,000 humanoid robots, the largest single order in the sector, primarily aimed at elderly care. Analysts suggest that the development of humanoid robots could also pave the way for advanced applications, including in defense and security.

Despite the growth in robotics, China still faces a significant need for skilled personnel. Reports from the Human Resources and Social Security Information Centre indicate that by 2030, the country could face a shortage of 50 million high-skilled blue-collar workers, emphasizing the importance of training programs to support intelligent industries such as robotics maintenance and AI-driven manufacturing.

China’s surge in industrial and humanoid robots illustrates how technology is helping the country navigate demographic challenges while reinforcing its position as a global manufacturing leader. With continued investment in automation and advanced robotics, China is set to maintain and even enhance its industrial capabilities over the next decade.