Preliminary IFR Report: Global Industrial Robot Installations Reach 560,000 Units in 2023

Jakarta, INTI - According to a preliminary report released by the International Federation of Robotics (IFR), global installations of industrial robots in 2023 reached 560,000 units, a 1% increase from the previous year. This data indicates stable growth in the adoption of robotic technology across various industrial sectors.

Increase in Industrial Robot Installations

The IFR report highlights that the installation of industrial robots worldwide has shown a significant upward trend over the past decade. In 2013, the number of installations was only 178,000 units. Since then, the figure has steadily increased each year, peaking in 2021 at 526,000 units, and continuing to rise to 560,000 units in 2023. Although the 2023 increase is just 1%, it reflects stability in the global demand and adoption of industrial robots.

Electronics as the Leading Sector for Robot Use

The report also reveals that the electronics sector was the largest customer of industrial robots in 2023. Installations in this sector reached 159,000 units, a 1% increase from the previous year. The automotive sector also showed significant growth, with installations reaching 140,000 units, up 3% from 2022.

Additionally, the metal and machinery sector, as well as the plastics and chemical products sector, recorded stable installation numbers. Installations in the metal and machinery sector reached 68,000 units, while the plastics and chemical products sector reached 23,000 units. The food sector recorded stable installations with 15,000 units in 2023.

Asia's Dominance in Industrial Robot Installations

Asia continues to dominate in terms of industrial robot installations, accounting for 73% of the total global installations in 2023. Countries in Asia, particularly China, South Korea, and Japan, have become major hubs in adopting robotic technology. This is driven by the increasing industrial need for automation to enhance efficiency and productivity.

Growth in the United States

The IFR report also shows that the United States experienced significant growth in industrial robot installations, with a 12% increase in 2023. The number of installations reached 44,000 units, up from 40,000 units the previous year. This growth reflects the increasing demand for automation and robotic technology across various industrial sectors in the United States.

Automotive Industry as the Pillar of Robot Demand in the US

The automotive sector remains the main pillar of robot demand in the United States. In 2023, installations in this sector reached 14,678 units, a 1% increase from the previous year. Additionally, the electronics/electrical sector showed significant growth of 37%, with installations reaching 5,120 units. The metal and machinery sector also recorded a growth of 6%, with installations reaching 4,123 units, while the plastics and chemical products sector and the food sector each recorded growth of 5% and 2%, respectively.

Stability in Mexico

Mexico remained stable in terms of industrial robot installations, maintaining a high level despite not showing significant growth. In 2023, installations reached 3,443 units, a slight decrease of 2% from the previous year. This stability indicates that the demand for robotic technology in Mexico remains strong, particularly in key sectors such as automotive and manufacturing.

Future Prospects and Robotic Technology

With ongoing technological advancements, the future prospects for the robotics industry look very promising. Innovations in artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and machine learning are expected to enhance the capabilities and flexibility of industrial robots. Additionally, the demand for smarter and more efficient automation solutions is predicted to continue rising across various sectors, including manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare.

The final IFR report, to be released on September 24, 2024, in the "World Robotics 2024" publication, is expected to provide deeper insights into the latest trends and developments in the global robotics industry. This data will be invaluable for companies and stakeholders looking to understand market dynamics and make strategic decisions in robotic technology investments.

Conclusion

The preliminary report from the International Federation of Robotics indicates that global installations of industrial robots in 2023 reached 560,000 units, with the electronics sector being the largest user. Asia remains the dominant region in adopting robotic technology, with a market share of 73%. With continuous technological advancements, the future prospects for the robotics industry are very promising. The final IFR report, to be released in September 2024, is expected to provide deeper insights into the latest trends and developments in this industry.

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