China to become largest robot consumer in 2014

Demand for industrial robots is predicted to hit 32,000 units by 2014 making China the world's largest robotics consumer. According to the International Federation of Robotics, the sector's technology and production have gained momentum amid higher labor costs and China's efforts to restructure its economic growth pattern and improve energy efficiency. At the China International Industry Fair, which closed on Saturday, China's robot manufacturers exhibited their models in direct competition with their foreign counterparts. The fair attracted more than 1,800 participants over the five-day exhibition. At the event, SIASUN Robot & Automation Co. demonstrated their new models, which are integrated with numerical control machines that can accomplish multi-procedure processes. The company's self-designed products have been exported to overseas markets including the U.S., Canada, Russia and India. Despite the growing sector, the industry warned that a lack of core technology will stall the development of robot manufacturing in the country. Gu Chunyuan, vice president at manufacturer ABB (China) Limited, said, "despite the substantive demand, Chinese manufacturers still have to rely on some overseas suppliers for many key components, which may hinder the independent growth of China's robot sector." Gu also highlighted the importance in supporting downstream industries and nurturing professional talent to improve development of the sector.