China installed more industrial robots in 2025 than the rest of the world combined

Chinese factories deployed 354 thousand industrial robots last year, a 20% jump that accounted for 59% of global installations. For the first time, domestic manufacturers outsold foreign brands in their home market, moving 195 thousand units — up 15% — and capturing 55% share. Meanwhile, the worldwide operational stock climbed 9% to a record five million robots, more than double the figure from seven years ago.

Chinese dominance tightens

Industrial automation is accelerating with Asia leading growth, followed by the Americas, while Europe lags, said Jane Heffner, president of the International Federation of Robotics (IFR). The data show Chinese makers are not only closing technology gaps but also taking meaningful share from established Japanese, German and Swiss brands.

United States overtakes Japan

The U.S. market rose 12% to roughly 38.5 thousand installations, the third-highest annual total on record, pushing past Japan to become the world's third-largest market. Japan fell 19% to 36,219 units. South Korea held steady around 30 thousand for a sixth consecutive year. India stood out with 15% growth to about 10,500 new robots, a 27% compound annual rate since 2020, though its installed base remains far smaller than the top five.

Europe stalls, Brazil surges

Germany, Europe's largest market and fifth globally, dropped 8% to under 25 thousand installations as its automotive sector — the primary buyer — pulled back. Italy, France and Spain all posted double-digit declines. Brazil, by contrast, jumped 38% to roughly 4,300 units, driven largely by a 212% spike in automotive installations attributed to investments by Chinese carmakers.

Global snapshot

Mexico recorded a third straight year of decline, finishing below 5,200 new robots. Canada grew 5% to about 4,000. The picture is clear: China has become the industry's near-exclusive growth engine, the United States is cementing its role as the leading Western alternative, and Europe struggles to generate positive momentum amid its automotive slowdown.