Brighton, September 14 (HNA) – Chinese humanoid robot manufacturers accounted for 97 per cent of global shipments in the first half of this year. China’s dominance in the humanoid robot race is causing concern in the Western world, particularly in the US.
According to the report titled “SAG Robotics 360”, published in August 2026 by the California-based market research firm Smart Analytics Global (SAG), China has established an overwhelming lead in production and shipments in the humanoid robot market over its US rivals (Tesla, Figure AI, etc.).
In the first half of 2026, global shipments of humanoid robots tripled compared to the same period a year earlier, totalling 19,100 units. This figure represents a massive 272 per cent growth compared to the 5,100 units shipped during the same period in 2025. Chinese manufacturers accounted for over 97 per cent of these 19,100 robots.
According to the report, the top spot in the humanoid robot market has also changed hands amongst Chinese manufacturers, with Shanghai-based Agibot securing 44 per cent of the global market on its own by delivering 8,400 robots, making it the world’s largest supplier of humanoid robots. Hangzhou-based Unitree Robotics ranks second with 5,900 units shipped, holding 31 per cent of the market. Furthermore, Unitree is preparing to become the first humanoid robot company to be listed on the stock exchange by launching its initial public offering (IPO) on the Shanghai Stock Exchange.
According to data from Smart Analytics Global, there has been a significant shift in the areas where robots are used: over 70 per cent of the robots delivered were acquired for use in industrial production and commercial applications (logistics, warehousing, pharmacy automation). Last year, this figure stood at around 50 per cent. Furthermore, over 85 per cent of global robot demand continues to originate from the Chinese domestic market.
Smart Analytics Global expects humanoid robot shipments to reach a total of 60,000 units by the end of 2026 and half a million (500,000) units by 2030.
China’s aggressive production and price advantage (rapidly reducing costs through mass production) is being viewed with concern in the US and European markets. Indeed, in July 2026, the US imposed restrictions on the import of Chinese-made humanoid robots, citing national security and cybersecurity risks.
China’s dominance in humanoid robots has emerged as a result of years of policy support and government funding aimed at accelerating advancements in robotics, drone technology, electric vehicles, and similar technologies.