From Shipbuilding to Export: China’s Robotics Industry Enters a New Era
On March 8, 2026, it was announced that the robotics company, Shenzhen New Times Robotics (002527.SZ), has initiated a significant expansion into international markets. The company aims to establish itself as a key player in the overseas robotics sector, with a focus on competing against well-established brands.
Prior to this, New Times Robotics had already garnered a notable presence in the overseas 3C electronic manufacturing sector, accumulating essential application foundations. The company expressed, “We have always been focused on ‘shipbuilding for export’, aligning our products with 3C and new energy supply chains.”
For instance, New Times Robotics’ SCARA robots and desktop vertical axis robots have already seen significant market penetration, with annual sales surpassing 1,200 units. Currently, New Times Robotics is focusing on expanding its influence in international markets and aims to transition from a “shipbuilding company” to an “exporting company.”
The company’s robotic solutions are a representation of China’s industrial robot capabilities. Data shows that by 2025, China’s robotic exports are projected to increase by 48.7%, with export scales already surpassing import levels, marking China as a leading exporter of industrial robots.
This structural change is reflected in the growing demand for robotics from Chinese manufacturers. According to Lin Yiwei, the general manager of MIR Robotics, the robotics sector’s growth is driven by shifts in market demand.
He stated, “Currently, domestic robotics products are in high demand, with an increasing focus on supply chain efficiency and quality. We aim to strengthen our collaboration with international partners to enhance our competitiveness.”
In the next two to three years, it is anticipated that the combination of “automation + robotics” will peak in terms of export volume. Lin also emphasized the importance of adapting to changing market conditions.
Notably, the robotics sector’s performance is closely tied to the automotive, electronics, and new energy industries. “The upcoming years will see an increase in demand for our products as we continue to innovate,” Lin added.
According to the International Federation of Robotics (IFR), China is expected to remain the largest industrial robot market in the world. By 2024, the annual output of industrial robots in China is projected to reach 29.5 million units, accounting for 54% of the global total.
In the context of the Chinese manufacturing landscape, Lin pointed out that while the robotics sector is gaining momentum, there remains a significant need for technological upgrades and innovations to maintain growth.
“Despite the rapid advancements, we still have a long way to go in terms of technological integration and competitive positioning in the global market,” he concluded.
As the robotics industry in China continues to evolve, it is poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of manufacturing and automation on a global scale.
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