China’s robot exports recorded strong growth during the first five months of 2026, with shipments reaching more than 10 million units as demand increased across global markets, according to new data released by the country’s General Administration of Customs.
Official figures showed that China exported 10.377 million robots of various types between January and May, generating export revenue of 19.99 billion yuan, or about $3 billion. The products were shipped to more than 150 countries and regions, reflecting the country’s expanding presence in the global robotics industry.
Cleaning robots accounted for the largest share of overseas sales. Exports in this category were valued at 14 billion yuan, representing more than 70 percent of the total value of robot exports during the five-month period. The strong performance highlights growing international demand for household automation products as consumers increasingly adopt smart home technologies.
China also reported growth in exports of industrial robots, with approximately 70,000 units shipped abroad during the period. Customs officials said these machines are being deployed across a widening range of manufacturing and industrial applications as overseas companies continue to automate production processes to improve efficiency and reduce operating costs.
In addition to household and industrial robots, China exported more than 8,000 intelligent bionic robots. These advanced machines are designed for specialised uses, including equipment inspection, scientific research, education and public service operations. The figures indicate rising international demand for higher-value robotics technology beyond traditional manufacturing equipment.
The customs administration attributed the continued expansion in exports to China’s well-developed industrial supply chain, which supports large-scale production and enables manufacturers to meet growing global demand. The country’s extensive network of component suppliers and production facilities has helped robotics companies increase output while maintaining competitive pricing in international markets.
The data showed that the European Union and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) remained the largest overseas destinations for Chinese robot exports during the reporting period. Both regions have seen increasing investment in automation technologies as businesses seek to improve productivity and address labour shortages in several industries.
China has made robotics development a strategic priority as part of its broader push to strengthen advanced manufacturing and high-technology industries. Domestic manufacturers have expanded production in recent years, supplying products ranging from consumer cleaning devices to sophisticated industrial automation systems and intelligent service robots.
The latest export figures underscore China’s growing role in the global robotics sector as manufacturers continue to broaden their international reach. With demand rising across consumer, industrial and specialised markets, the country’s robotics industry is expected to remain an important contributor to export growth during the remainder of the year.
