Dongguan, once known as the "World's Factory", is now making waves as a global hub for intelligent manufacturing. According to Huangpu Customs, the city exported over RMB 190 million (approx. USD 26 million) worth of industrial robots from January to May 2025, an impressive year-on-year increase of 116.4%. These robots are widely used in applications such as welding, handling, and assembly across global markets.
Behind this growth is a thriving ecosystem of more than 7,000 robotics-related companies, including nearly 4,700 dedicated manufacturers. One standout is AgileX Robotics, headquartered in Dongguan's Songshan Lake. Over the past decade, the company has developed cutting-edge mobile robot chassis and smart robotic systems with applications ranging from industrial assembly lines to household services like folding clothes.
To date, AgileX has successfully delivered over 3,000 robotics solutions worldwide, covering fields like security inspection, agriculture, and logistics, with exports mainly to Europe, North America, Japan, and South Korea.
"Compared to last year, our exports are up around 70-80%," said Chen Peng, Marketing Director of AgileX Robotics. "Orders from research and AI sectors are growing fastest. These clients often need robots delivered quickly, with stock on hand and immediate responses."
Customs officials are also playing a vital role in supporting this growth. Dongguan Customs actively helps local firms understand international standards and certifications, ensuring smoother, faster access to global markets.
