China’s manufacturing industry is undergoing a major revolution with the emergence of humanoid robots developed by various technology companies. These robots are designed to replace millions of workers in factories, increase production efficiency, and reduce dependence on human labor. With the full support of the Chinese government, this technology is developing rapidly and is poised to change the global industrial landscape.
Development of Humanoid Robots in China
In recent years, China has invested heavily in artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics. One company leading this innovation is AgiBot, a startup focused on developing humanoid robots for a variety of industrial tasks. In a large warehouse on the outskirts of Shanghai, dozens of humanoid robots are trained to perform tasks such as folding T-shirts, making sandwiches and opening doors.
These robots operate up to 17 hours a day, generating large amounts of data that is used to improve their intelligence. The main goal of the project is to create robots that can work independently, without the need for human intervention in the production process.
Chinese Government Support
The Chinese government sees humanoid robots as a solution to a variety of economic challenges, including slowing economic growth, population decline, and trade competition with the United States. Chinese President Xi Jinping even visited an AgiBot facility and witnessed the robots’ capabilities firsthand. During his visit, Xi Jinping joked that someday these robots might play on a soccer team.
To support the development of this technology, the Chinese government has allocated more than 1 trillion yuan (around Rp2,979 trillion) in subsidies and funding for AI and robotics startups. Cities such as Shenzhen and Beijing have also built data training centers and provided incentives such as subsidies of up to 5 million yuan and free office space for companies developing this technology.
Advantages of Humanoid Robot Technology
One of the main reasons why China is able to develop humanoid robots quickly is its advantage in the component supply chain. About 90% of all humanoid robot components can be produced domestically, which can significantly reduce production costs. Currently, the material cost for one humanoid robot in China averages US$35,000 (Rp582.2 million), and is expected to drop to US$17,000 (Rp282.7 million) by 2030.
Some startups have even started selling robots for as little as 88,000 yuan (around Rp. 170 million), making the technology even more affordable for the manufacturing industry.
Impact on Manufacturing Workforce
While this technology offers incredible efficiency, there are major concerns about its impact on the human workforce. As robots increasingly replace workers in factories, millions of people are at risk of losing their jobs.
But some experts argue that humanoid robots could actually create new jobs in programming, maintenance, and AI technology development. In addition, a more efficient manufacturing industry could increase China's competitiveness in the global market, which in turn could open up new economic opportunities.
Conclusion
China is at the forefront of an industrial revolution with the development of humanoid robots that are poised to replace millions of manufacturing workers. With heavy government support and supply chain leadership, the technology is advancing rapidly and has the potential to change the way factories work around the world.
Despite concerns about the impact on the human workforce, humanoid robots are also opening up new opportunities in the technology and manufacturing industries. Will this be the future of global industry, or will it create greater societal challenges? Only time will tell.
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