Executive Summary
Industrial robots are becoming an important part of modern manufacturing. They are no longer used only for simple, repeated jobs such as welding or moving parts. Manufacturers are now looking for robots that can see, understand changes, work with other machines and adjust to different products. This change is being supported by artificial intelligence (AI), machine vision, sensors, industrial connectivity and digital simulation.
The global market had a strong year in 2025. According to the International Federation of Robotics (IFR), about 603,000 industrial robots were installed worldwide in 2025, an increase of 11% from the previous year. The number of robots working in factories reached about 5.08 million. China remained the largest market, while the United States and India also showed strong growth. IFR expects global installations to reach about 655,000 units in 2026 and 806,000 by 2029.
One of the most important changes is the move from conventional automation to intelligent automation. In conventional systems, a robot normally follows a fixed program. With AI and better vision systems, robots can identify objects, handle variation and make better decisions during a task. This is especially useful for inspection, picking, sorting, machine tending and flexible assembly.
The market is also becoming more competitive. Large companies such as ABB, FANUC, KUKA, Yaskawa and Kawasaki continue to invest in robot hardware and automation. At the same time, companies working in AI, computer vision, simulation and industrial software are becoming more important. This means that future growth will not come only from selling more robot arms. Software, integration, services and AI-based applications will also create new revenue opportunities.
Market Overview
Industrial robots are programmable machines used to perform manufacturing and material-handling activities with a high level of repeatability. The main types include articulated robots, SCARA robots, delta robots, Cartesian robots and collaborative robots, also called cobots. The market also includes controllers, motors, sensors, cameras, grippers, safety equipment, software and system integration.
Robot demand is closely linked to manufacturing investment. When companies build new factories or increase production, they often invest in automation to improve output and control costs. Labour shortages are another important reason. Robots can take over repetitive or physically difficult jobs and allow employees to focus on higher-value activities.
Recent data show that the market is not limited to the automotive industry. Electronics, metal and machinery, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, logistics and other manufacturing sectors are increasingly using robots. In 2025, electronics and automotive each recorded 10% growth in robot installations, while metal and machinery grew by 22%.
China is the main centre of the global market. It installed around 354,000 robots in 2025, equal to about 59% of worldwide installations. The United States installed almost 38,500 units. India installed nearly 10,500 units and became the sixth-largest national market. India's installation level is still small compared with China, but its growth rate is high and its manufacturing base is expanding.