Asia Leads Global Surge in Industrial Robot Installations for 2024

Global industrial robot installations have reached a new peak in 2024, with a total of 542,000 robots deployed worldwide, marking a significant increase in automation within various industries. This trend highlights a pronounced shift in regional adoption rates, particularly in Asia, where the demand for robotic technology continues to surge. As companies strive for enhanced efficiency in their operations, the landscape of global manufacturing is evolving, with distinct disparities emerging between different regions.

According to the International Federation of Robotics (IFR), the number of new installations in 2024 maintains a consistent trend of exceeding 500,000 units annually for the past four years. Asia commands an impressive 74% of the global market, far outpacing Europe and the Americas. The IFR estimates that the total operational stock of industrial robots has now reached approximately 4.66 million units, reflecting a 9% increase from 2023. IFR President Takayuki Ito remarked, “The new World Robotics statistics show 2024 the second-highest annual installation count of industrial robots in history,” underscoring the robust shift towards digitalization and automation in advanced industrial economies.

China’s Dominance in Robot Deployments

China has solidified its position as the leader in industrial robotics by accounting for 54% of all new installations in 2024, with 295,000 units deployed—its highest total to date. The local robotics sector has gained significant ground, with domestic manufacturers surpassing foreign brands for the first time, achieving a 57% market share. This growth is evident in China’s operational stock, which now exceeds two million units, the largest in the world. The IFR anticipates a continued upward trajectory in China’s robotics market, projecting an annual growth rate of 10% until at least 2028.

Regional Trends and Future Outlook

Outside of China, other Asian nations have also witnessed notable activity in robotics. Japan, recognized as the second-largest market, recorded 44,500 new installations in 2024, despite a slight decline from the previous year. South Korea maintained its status as the fourth-largest global market, while India reported record numbers in robot deployments. In contrast, Europe experienced an 8% decline to 85,000 new units, and the Americas saw a 10% decrease, with the United States remaining the leading market in the Western hemisphere. These regional variations are influenced by shifts in industry demand, particularly in sectors like automotive manufacturing and various policy incentives.

Looking ahead, the IFR projects that worldwide robot installations will increase by 6% to 575,000 units in 2025, with expectations to surpass 700,000 by 2028, primarily driven by growth in Asian markets. While economic conditions and geopolitical tensions present potential risks, the demand for automation appears resilient. Takayuki Ito emphasized, “The transition of many industries into the digital and automated age has been marked by a huge surge in demand.”

Current data reinforces Asia’s commanding position in the global robotics market, particularly as China extends its lead through increased adoption and local production capabilities. The steady deployment of robots in Asian manufacturing sectors starkly contrasts with Europe’s fluctuating investment patterns and the Americas’ reliance on imports. For stakeholders in the industry, understanding these trends offers insight into the evolving landscape of manufacturing efficiencies and robotics supply chains. The anticipated growth rates in countries like China and India may redefine norms in the international robotics market, influencing strategic planning for suppliers and investors around the world.