Humanoid Robots: China Leads Production, but Germany Could Supply the Technology Behind Them

Europe could capture a valuable position in the growing humanoid robotics market by supplying the precision components that make these machines work.

China is rapidly expanding its humanoid robot production, accounting for approximately 97% of global deliveries in the first half of 2026. Meanwhile, Germany could leverage its industrial expertise to become a key supplier of essential technologies, including motors, gearboxes, sensors, joints and robotic hands.

A study by the Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Engineering and Automation (IPA), conducted with consultancy P3, estimates that the humanoid robotics market could reach around $30 billion by 2030.

Building on Europe’s industrial strengths

German manufacturers already have extensive experience in precision engineering and industrial automation, giving them a potential advantage in producing reliable, high-performance components for humanoid robots.

Companies such as Schaeffler, Bosch and Schunk are exploring opportunities in this emerging market. Schaeffler, for example, has developed a gearbox specifically for humanoid robots, with series production expected to begin in mid-2027. Bosch and Schunk are also collaborating on robotic hand technology designed for integration into different robot platforms.

These components are critical to enabling robots to perform complex movements, manipulate objects and operate reliably in industrial environments.

An opportunity for European industry

Rather than competing directly with China in the production of complete robots, European companies could focus on supplying the advanced components and systems that underpin their performance.

However, capturing this opportunity will require competitive pricing, increased production capacity and strong partnerships with robot manufacturers. As China strengthens its own component supply chains, European suppliers will also need to act quickly to establish their market positions.

The key opportunity for Europe lies in turning its established engineering expertise into a strategic advantage in the global humanoid robotics value chain.