Beijing Warns of Overheating in Humanoid Robot Market

China's humanoid robot market may be overheating, warns the National Development and Reform Commission.

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

The agency, responsible for economic policy and strategic planning, noted the rise in similar models from over 150 companies.

According to agency spokesperson Li Chao, it is crucial for the country to avoid market saturation and maintain incentives for genuine research and development.

“Advanced industries have long struggled with balancing growth speed and bubble risks. The humanoid robot sector faces this challenge,” she said.

Development of bots and investments in the sector surged after Unitree droids performed at the Spring Festival gala earlier this year, capturing nationwide attention.

The Chinese Communist Party included the sector among six new economic growth drivers in the country’s development guidelines for the five-year plan up to 2030.

Since then, bots have demonstrated unique capabilities:

• running marathons;
• fighting;
• playing football.

In November, one of China’s leading manufacturers, UBTech Robotics, secured a major contract to supply humanoids to border checkpoints. They will assist travelers, conduct inspections, and handle logistics.

Bubble Not a Concern

Public interest in the industry has fueled investor enthusiasm. Consequently, the Solactive China Humanoid Robotics Index, tracking shares of robotics-related companies, rose by 30% in 2025.

Citigroup forecasts the robot market to grow to $7 trillion by 2050. Analysts predict widespread adoption of humanoids in households and businesses in the coming years.

Li stated that authorities will continue to accelerate the creation of market entry and exit mechanisms. This is necessary to foster a competitive environment.

Beijing intends to actively develop research and development in key technologies while simultaneously building infrastructure for training and testing.

The government also plans to promote the consolidation and joint use of technological and industrial resources across the country to encourage practical applications of humanoids.

Back in December 2024, China began deploying a robot police officer—a round, armed AI device resembling a large bowling ball.