Industrial robot shipments in Japan increase for the first time in two years

JARA announces 2024 annual statistics and 2025 outlook 

On May 30, the Japan Robot Association (JARA), chaired by Yasuhiko Hashimoto, President and CEO of Kawasaki Heavy Industries, released the annual statistics for industrial robot orders, production, and shipments in 2024. The figures include both JARA members and non-members. 

In 2024, total orders fell by 1.3% year-on-year (YoY) to JPY 832.1 billion, production declined by 12.4% to JPY 781.1 billion, and total shipments dropped by 10.6% to JPY 825.2 billion. All three categories posted year-on-year declines for the second consecutive year. 

The global robot market faced continued challenges throughout the year, with growing uncertainty in the world economy and a prolonged slump in the Chinese market contributing to weak demand. However, domestic shipments reversed course and increased for the first time in two years, supported by stronger demand from the automotive sector. 

In contrast, exports remained weak. While demand for electronic component mounting equipment showed signs of recovery, major segments such as welding and material handling saw significant declines across various regions. 

Forecast for 2025: Return to growth amid continued uncertainty 

JARA also released its forecast for 2025. Although concerns remain over geopolitical fragmentation and the impact of U.S. trade policies on capital investment, the association noted that incoming orders have remained solid, indicating that global automation demand is still strong. 

Despite the uncertainty, JARA expects both orders and production to rise in 2025 for the first time in three years. Orders are forecast to grow by 4.6% YoY to JPY 870 billion, and production is projected to increase by 6.3% YoY to JPY 830 billion.