China's Unitree Robotics has delivered over 5,500 humanoid robots, surpassing US rivals. According to Devere Group CEO Nigel Green, this highlights China's scale in manufacturing and offers investors an alternative to heavily financed US AI infrastructure. Green noted that China's expanding robot production could give investors exposure to physical AI demand outside the US technology sector. Unitree Robotics reported production above 6,500 units, with actual shipments exceeding 5,500 units.
China's Manufacturing Advantage
China's overseas hardware sales differ from vendor-supported revenue arrangements in the US, with Green stating that China's export wave is 'hardware shipped to real ports and installed on real factory floors overseas'. Available industry estimates put Tesla and Figure AI at a few hundred humanoid robot shipments or less during 2025.
Industry Event
The Beijing World Robot Conference will provide a test of whether China's manufacturing scale can translate into orders and practical deployments, with over 300 exhibitors and 2,000 exhibits scheduled. Green linked China's 2025 shipment totals with the industry's broader manufacturing momentum, saying 'volumes like that are the proof'.
Commercial Activity
Commercial activity extends beyond equipment sales, with Chinese companies seeking near-term uses for machines that require human support. AGIBOT's SHAREBOT platform logged over 5,500 rental orders in its first three months, showing demand while revealing limits on autonomous operation.
Regulatory Environment
Washington has narrowed a potential export destination for Chinese manufacturers through new equipment-authorization restrictions. The Federal Communications Commission's action blocks new foreign-produced humanoid and quadruped robot models from receiving authorization for US importation, marketing, or sale.