China warns of a potential bubble in its humanoid robotics industry

China’s National Development and Reform Commission has warned that the country’s humanoid robotics sector may be heading toward overheating.

According to Li Chao, a representative of the Commission, China already has more than 150 companies developing humanoid robots, with new entrants appearing at a rapid pace and many models becoming increasingly alike. She noted that authorities need to act early to prevent a market bubble and create conditions that support research and the development of core technologies.

Beijing is concerned about the surge of capital flowing into an industry it considers a key driver of future economic growth and has designated as a priority in the current Five-Year Plan. Analysts expect production to grow exponentially next year: UBTech alone has reportedly secured more than 100 million USD in orders. At the same time, large-scale industrial adoption of humanoids has yet to materialise.

The Solactive China Humanoid Robotics Index, which tracks Chinese companies in the sector, has risen 26 percent since the start of the year, further fueling speculation about an overheated market. Authorities now plan to accelerate efforts to create a more transparent environment, including mechanisms for bringing new products to market and withdrawing them if necessary, in order to maintain fair competition.