Global Industrial Robot Installations Double in a Decade

Industrial Robot Installations Double in a Decade, Hitting 542,000 Units in 2024

Record-Breaking Automation Growth

The World Robotics 2025 report reveals dramatic growth in industrial automation. Global factories installed 542,000 industrial robots during 2024, more than doubling the installation figures from ten years prior. This marks the fourth consecutive year where annual installations exceeded 500,000 units, demonstrating sustained demand for automation technology worldwide.

Asian Dominance in Robot Deployment

Asia continues to lead global robotics adoption, accounting for 74% of all new robot installations in 2024. Europe followed with 16% market share, while the Americas represented 9% of global deployments. The total operational robot population reached 4.66 million units worldwide, reflecting a 9% annual increase according to IFR President Takayuki Ito.

China’s Robotics Market Expansion

China solidified its position as the world’s largest robotics market, representing 54% of global installations with 295,000 units deployed in 2024. Chinese robot manufacturers now dominate their domestic market, capturing 57% of local sales compared to just 28% a decade ago. The country’s operational robot stock surpassed 2 million units, with projections indicating sustained 10% annual growth through 2028.

Regional Market Performance Variations

Japan maintained its position as the second-largest robotics market despite a slight 4% decrease to 44,500 installations. South Korea ranked fourth globally with 30,600 units, while India achieved record growth with 9,100 installations, propelled largely by automotive industry demand representing 45% of their market.

European Automation Trends

European robot installations declined 8% to 85,000 units, though this still represents the second-highest historical level. Germany led European adoption with 26,982 installations, commanding 32% of the regional market. The nearshoring trend continues to benefit European robot demand, resulting in a 3% average annual growth rate since 2019.

Americas Market Analysis

The Americas maintained strong automation investment with over 50,000 installations for the fourth consecutive year. The United States accounted for 68% of regional deployments despite a 9% decrease to 34,200 units. Mexico and Canada saw moderate declines, with their automotive industries remaining the primary automation drivers at 63% and 47% market share respectively.

Future Outlook and Projections

Despite global economic uncertainties and geopolitical tensions, the robotics industry demonstrates remarkable resilience. Global installations are projected to increase 6% to 575,000 units in 2025, with expectations to surpass 700,000 units by 2028. The long-term growth trajectory remains positive as manufacturers continue prioritizing automation to enhance productivity and competitiveness.

Industry Perspective: The Automation Imperative

The doubling of robot installations over the past decade signals a fundamental shift in global manufacturing strategy. Companies increasingly view automation not as a luxury but as a necessity for maintaining competitive advantage. This trend is particularly evident in regions facing labor shortages and rising production costs, where robotics offer sustainable solutions for long-term operational efficiency.

Application Scenario: Automotive Manufacturing

Automotive plants continue to lead robotics adoption, with automated welding, painting, and assembly applications driving significant efficiency gains. Modern automotive facilities typically deploy hundreds of robots, achieving production precision and consistency impossible through manual labor alone while reducing workplace injuries and maintaining 24/7 operation capabilities.

FAQ

Which region leads in robotics adoption?
Asia dominates with 74% of global installations, led by China’s 54% market share of worldwide deployments.

How has Chinese robotics manufacturing evolved?
Chinese manufacturers now control 57% of their domestic market, reversing a decade-long trend of foreign supplier dominance.

What is the global robot population?
Approximately 4.66 million industrial robots were operational worldwide in 2024, with steady growth continuing.

Which industries drive robotics demand?
Automotive manufacturing remains the primary driver, particularly in emerging markets like India and established markets like Germany.

What are the future projections?
Global installations are expected to reach 575,000 units in 2025 and surpass 700,000 by 2028, despite economic uncertainties.