AiBot
China’s humanoid robot makers have maintained their stronghold on the global market, commanding an impressive 97% of global shipments in the first half of 2026, according to recent industry data. This significant lead against US rivals underscores China’s early advantage in the burgeoning field, with the country’s robot makers poised for continued growth and innovation.
According to data from Smart Analytics Global, global humanoid robot shipments totaled roughly 19,100 units in the first half of 2026, more than triple the 5,100 units shipped in the same period last year. The research firm expects shipments to rise to around 60,000 units this year and reach half a million by 2030. This rapid expansion reflects the growing demand for humanoid robots in various industries, including healthcare, manufacturing, and logistics.
Shanghai-based Agibot has emerged as the market leader, capturing 44% of global shipments with 8,400 units in the six-month period, surpassing Hangzhou-based Unitree Robotics, which accounted for 5,900 units. Top US companies such as Tesla Inc., Figure AI Inc., and Agility Robotics Inc. trail far behind, underscoring the pace of development within China.
The US has taken notice of China’s humanoid robot advancements and has implemented measures to restrict Chinese imports. In late July, the US banned imports of new Chinese humanoid and quadruped robots, along with certain components, citing national security and cybersecurity risks to critical US artificial intelligence infrastructure. This move is likely to intensify competition and cooperation between the two nations in the field of robotics.
China’s policy support and funding from various levels of governments have played a crucial role in accelerating the development of humanoid robots. The prioritization of such robotics was evident at the World AI Conference in Shanghai last month, where dozens of robot makers unveiled advances in dexterity, speed, and capabilities. This investment in robotics research and development is expected to pave the way for the widespread adoption of humanoid robots in various industries.
The deployment of humanoid robots in commercially productive roles remains limited, but China’s leadership in the field is expected to drive innovation and push the boundaries of what these robots can accomplish. As the market for humanoid robots continues to grow, the competition between China and the US is likely to intensify, with both nations vying for dominance in this rapidly evolving field.
The data from Smart Analytics Global highlights the following key statistics:
– Global humanoid robot shipments: 19,100 units (first half of 2026)
– Global humanoid robot shipments (same period last year): 5,100 units
– Agibot market share: 44% (first half of 2026)
– Unitree Robotics market share: 31% (first half of 2026)
– Expected global humanoid robot shipments in 2023: 60,000 units
– Expected global humanoid robot shipments by 2030: half a million units
As the market for humanoid robots continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how China and the US compete for dominance in this field. One thing is certain, however: China’s early lead and continued investment in robotics research and development have positioned the country for significant growth and innovation in the coming years.