“India is one of the world's fastest-growing industrial economies,” says IFR President, Marina Bill. “Within five years, the operational stock of industrial robots has more than doubled, to reach 33,220 units in 2021. This corresponds to an average annual growth rate of 16 percent since 2016.”
India’s growth in industrial robotics is almost as impressive as its manufacturing output. According to World Bank data, the country’s manufacturing value added in 2021 was $443.9 billion, up 21.6 percent from 2020. While robotics is obviously not the sole driver of this growth in Indian manufacturing, it’s clearly a major factor.
Unsurprisingly, the biggest customer for robotics in India is the automotive industry, accounting for nearly one-third of all industrial robot installations at 31 percent. According to the IFR report, installations more than doubled, up 108 percent versus the previous year.
The next biggest buyers of industrial robots in India are the metal industry, rubber and plastics, and the electrical/electronics industry. It’s worth noting that sales in the metal industry actually declined by 9 percent compared to the previous year, though the rest saw positive growth.
The report draws clear parallels between India and China in terms of their robot density (the number of industrial robots installed per 10,000 employees). Between 2010 and 2021, China’s robot density increased from 131 to 772. India is currently sitting at 148 as of 2021. Whether the country will see a similar increase in robot density over the next decade remains to be seen, but it’s clear that manufacturing growth is a top priority for the Indian government.
“As a result of the recent supply chain disruption, companies are rethinking their nearshoring strategies in Southeast Asia,” says Bill. “India has traditionally been a popular destination for nearshoring in the manufacturing segment. The Indian government wants the country to be considered for new diversification options such as friendshoring, which is partnering with countries that share similar values and interests.”