Пекин бьет тревогу: пузырь на рынке гуманоидных роботов под угрозой Translation: Headline: Beijing Sounds Alarm: Humanoid Robot Market Bubble at Risk

A bubble may be forming in China’s humanoid robot market, according to the National Development and Reform Commission, as reported by Bloomberg.

The agency responsible for economic policy and strategic planning highlighted the increasing presence of similar models from over 150 companies.

As stated by agency spokesperson Li Chao, it is crucial for the country to avoid market saturation and maintain incentives for genuine research and innovation.

“Advanced industries have long struggled to find a balance between rapid growth and the risk of bubbles. The humanoid robot sector is facing this challenge,” she commented.

The development of robots and investment in the sector surged after Unitree’s droids performed at a Spring Festival gala earlier this year, captivating audiences nationwide.

The Communist Party of China has identified the industry as one of six new drivers of economic growth in its guidelines for the five-year development plan leading to 2030.

Since then, robots have been showcasing their unique capabilities:

In November, leading Chinese manufacturer UBTech Robotics secured a significant contract to deploy humanoids at border checkpoints. These robots will assist travelers, conduct inspections, and manage logistics.

Public interest in the industry has fueled investor enthusiasm. Consequently, the Solactive China Humanoid Robotics Index, which tracks stocks of related companies, rose by 30% in 2025.

Citigroup projects that the robotics market will expand to $7 trillion by 2050, with analysts predicting mass adoption of humanoids in households and businesses in the coming years.

Li stated that authorities will continue to expedite the establishment of mechanisms for market entry and exit to foster a competitive environment.

Beijing aims to enhance research and development in key technologies while simultaneously building infrastructure for training and testing.

The government also plans to facilitate the consolidation and sharing of technological and industrial resources nationwide to promote the practical application of humanoids.

Additionally, in December 2024, China began deploying a police robot — a round, armed device with artificial intelligence resembling a large bowling ball.