China's robotic industry is still largely positioned at the lower end of the market, but in the long-term development trajectory, a number of domestic industrial robots have started to gain momentum. In recent years, China has also made significant progress in the field of six-axis robots, which are more technically complex and widely used in industries such as automotive, electronics, and plastics.
In 2015, the "Big Four" — Japan’s Fanuc, Yaskawa, Germany’s Kuka, and Sweden’s ABB — collectively held 18%, 12%, 14%, and 13.5% of the Chinese industrial robot market, respectively. Together, foreign brands occupied about 34.5% of the market, leaving only around 8% for domestic companies. However, when looking at volume rather than value, domestic brands accounted for roughly 30% of sales, with over 22,000 units sold. This highlights that while China’s robotic products remain largely low-end, there is growing potential and activity within the domestic sector.
Despite the dominance of international players, several Chinese robotics companies have emerged and grown strong. Companies like Xinshida, Huazhong CNC, Yanshi Technology, and Kai Bao Robots have gained recognition in the industry. These firms are not only contributing to the domestic market but are also pushing the boundaries of innovation.
Recent breakthroughs in six-axis robots have been particularly notable. Unlike four-axis robots, which can rotate in a horizontal plane, six-axis robots feature additional movement in the vertical plane, making them more versatile and suitable for complex tasks such as assembly, polishing, and CNC loading. These robots are critical in high-precision manufacturing environments.
One standout example is Changying Precision’s TR8, the world’s fastest small six-axis robot. Launched by its subsidiary Guangdong Tianji Robot Co., Ltd., the TR8 has already been deployed in applications like metal casing grinding and polishing, as well as assembly and loading. It marks the first product developed through a collaboration between Changying Precision and Japan’s Yaskawa Electric. The company has ambitious production plans, aiming to produce 500 units in the second half of 2017, 3,000 in 2018, 5,000 in 2019, and 10,000 in 2020. Analysts believe that if these targets are met, the TR8 could generate an annual output value of around 300 million yuan, with net profits expected to reach 80 million yuan, offering a meaningful boost to the company’s growth.
Another milestone was achieved by Ningbo Zhicheng Robot Co., Ltd., which recently exported its first six-axis robot to the United States. Purchased by a U.S. equipment manufacturer, this export marks a significant step for Ningbo’s robotics industry, showing that its technology is now being recognized by demanding Western markets. According to the chairman of the Ningbo Robot Industry Association, this achievement reflects the rising quality and competitiveness of local manufacturers.
Zhicheng’s CEO, Dong Bangsheng, emphasized that the adoption of intelligent manufacturing equipment helps reduce labor costs, improve product quality, and simplify operations. With prices significantly lower than imported alternatives — often just half the cost — their products are highly competitive in the market. The company expects to deliver over 250 six-axis and four-axis robots this year and aims to become one of the top five multi-joint robot manufacturers in China.
As China continues to invest in R&D and expand its technological capabilities, the future of its robotics industry looks increasingly promising. While challenges remain, the progress made so far suggests that domestic companies are not only catching up but also beginning to carve out a stronger global presence.
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