China is showcasing its rapidly expanding humanoid robotics industry as companies seek to scale production and explore international markets amid growing technology restrictions from the United States.
More than 300 companies displayed humanoid, industrial and service robots at the World Robot Conference in Beijing, highlighting China’s ambition to move robotics beyond demonstrations and into factories, commercial environments and everyday applications.
Among the technologies on display were humanoid robots capable of walking, running, performing physical tasks and interacting with people. Chinese companies are increasingly focusing on practical applications, particularly manufacturing, logistics, healthcare and other areas where automation can address labor shortages and improve productivity.
The rapid expansion of the sector comes as Chinese robotics manufacturers face growing restrictions in the U.S. Washington has introduced measures limiting the entry of certain foreign-made humanoid and quadruped robots, citing national security concerns.
Despite those restrictions, Chinese manufacturers are increasingly looking toward markets in Asia, the Middle East and other regions to expand their international presence. Chery’s robotics division, AiMOGA Robotics, for example, has already delivered more than 3,000 robots globally and is targeting significantly higher deliveries as it expands overseas.
China currently holds a dominant position in humanoid robot manufacturing. Reuters reported that Chinese companies accounted for the vast majority of global humanoid robot deliveries in the first half of 2026, reflecting the country’s large manufacturing base and growing domestic demand.
Investors are also showing strong interest. Chinese humanoid robot maker Unitree Robotics made a dramatic debut on Shanghai’s STAR Market, underscoring expectations that robotics could become one of the country’s next major technology industries.
However, experts caution that the technology remains at an early stage. Many humanoid robots can perform impressive demonstrations but still struggle with complex real-world tasks, reliability and cost-effectiveness. Researchers and industry executives say substantial advances in robotics software, hardware and artificial intelligence will be needed before humanoids become commonplace.
Unitree CEO Wang Xingxing said the industry could be approaching a “ChatGPT moment” in which robots become capable of understanding instructions and performing a broad range of tasks in unfamiliar environments, although he estimated that such a breakthrough could still be several years away.
The accelerating competition is turning humanoid robotics into another major front in the broader U.S.-China technology rivalry, with both countries seeking leadership in artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing and autonomous systems.
For Chinese companies, restrictions on access to the U.S. market could create challenges, but they may also accelerate efforts to develop alternative international markets and strengthen domestic supply chains. Observers say the coming years will determine whether China’s current manufacturing advantage translates into lasting global leadership in humanoid robotics.
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