Chinese humanoid robots ready to work in Central, Eastern Europe

WARSAW — The steady hum of robotic arms filled the exhibition hall as automated welding machines from FAIRINO operated with precise movements. Nearby, visitors gathered around a humanoid robot made by Unitree Robotics, taking photos as it greeted them with animated gestures.

Many of the robots attracting visitors are made by these Chinese firms and others participating in the International Trade Fair for Industrial Automation and Robotics held in Warsaw in mid-May.

At the booth of Polish company Positive Machines, logistics robots moved smoothly between simulated warehouse shelves, demonstrating cargo handling and transport functions. Product manager Michal Zdrada says his company primarily purchases logistics and transportation robots from China and has sold more than 500 units to date.

According to him, Chinese-made robots stand out for their cost-effectiveness, with comparable products from Poland or Germany often priced three to four times higher.

Also opting for Chinese-made robotics products, Polish company ELTRON showcased industrial robotic arms produced by FAIRINO. The machines are used for tasks such as welding, laser marking, and industrial safety inspection.

ELTRON's regional sales manager, Jacek Slusarek, says the company chose the Chinese brand for its competitive pricing and reliable quality. He says the robotic arms have already received positive feedback after entering the market, prompting continued cooperation.

A large share of exhibitors at the fair are using Chinese robotic products. Among them, the Polish company Tech4Business showcased China-made floor-cleaning, food-delivery and humanoid robots, attracting crowds of visitors. Project manager Piotr Kozynacki says the company's founding team has spent nearly 15 years working in cleaning services before establishing Tech4Business last year.

After extensive market research and supplier screening, the company selected Chinese brands including AgiBot, KEENON Robotics and Lens Technology. "These were simply the best solutions we found," Kozynacki says.

He notes Chinese manufacturers often adopt suggestions and customize products based on local customers' feedback. "That is something we are very satisfied with when working with Chinese companies," he says.

According to Tech4Business, given China's rapid development in the robotics industry, the company is seeking cooperation with more Chinese robotics suppliers, while European firms are competing to become distributors of Chinese robotics brands.

The appeal of and faith in Chinese automation technology has extended beyond Poland.

Czech-headquartered ITS-AIM discusses its cooperation with Jiangsu Bozhiwang Automation Equipment Co in the trade of industrial automation and wire-processing equipment in Central and Eastern Europe. Co-founder Szymon Kohut says Chinese firms possess clear manufacturing and cost advantages in the wire-harness automation sector, which enables them to focus on Asia-Europe trade.

Dariusz Plewik, regional sales manager of the German company Beckhoff Automation, describes Chinese robotics manufacturers as increasingly influential players in the global market.

Noting that he has observed Chinese robotics companies' significant presence at the recent Hannover Messe, Plewik says China is one of Beckhoff Automation's key markets, accounting for nearly 10 percent of its total sales, with sales in China rising by about 10 percent from 2024 to 2025.

"China's industrial and robotics industries are developing at a pace that cannot be ignored," he says.

Xinhua