In a recent statement, Lin Jian, spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, responded to comments made by Takayuki Ito, President of the International Federation of Robotics (IFR), regarding China’s rapid advancement in robotics. Ito had earlier noted that China’s robotics industry is developing at an unprecedented pace, significantly driving automation across the global manufacturing sector.
According to the World Robotics Report 2025 released by the IFR, China’s operational stock of industrial robots surpassed two million units in 2024 — the highest in the world. This milestone underscores China’s leading position in industrial automation and smart manufacturing.
The applications of Chinese robots are expanding rapidly across a diverse range of sectors, including automotive, electronics, metal and machinery, domestic services, healthcare, and education. From laboratories to production lines and even households, Chinese robots are increasingly becoming an integral part of modern industrial and social life.
Lin Jian highlighted that the mass production and growing applications of Chinese robots are driven by continuous innovation and a robust environment for industrial development. This progress has accelerated the growth of domestic enterprises while promoting coordinated development across global supply chains and related industries.
China currently hosts more than 500,000 high-tech enterprises and leads the world with over 40 percent of global “Lighthouse Factories” — smart manufacturing sites recognized for their advanced use of digital technologies and innovation. These achievements reflect China’s determination to become a global leader in industrial intelligence and digital transformation.
The spokesperson emphasized that these developments are injecting strong momentum into the Chinese economy while contributing wisdom and strength to global technological progress. Lin Jian reaffirmed that innovation remains the primary driver of China’s development strategy.
He added that China will continue to fully implement its innovation-driven development strategy, further open its markets to the world, and share the benefits of its technological advancements globally. This commitment underscores China’s ambition to not only lead in robotics and automation but also to play a vital role in shaping the future of global industrial innovation.
Disclaimer: This article is based on official remarks by the Chinese Foreign Ministry and data from the World Robotics Report 2025 released by the International Federation of Robotics
