Germany is falling behind in robot density and growth rates compared to countries like China and South Korea – Creative image: Xpert.Digital
Robot nation in a stuttering gait: Germany's problem with dynamism and growth
Industrial robotics in focus: Where Germany is squandering its lead
Germany finds itself in a difficult position regarding the development and use of industrial robots. In international comparison, particularly with countries like China and South Korea, Germany, while boasting a solid foundation of robot density, clearly lags behind in terms of dynamism and growth. This phenomenon can be attributed to several key factors, which will be examined and supplemented in detail below.
Reasons for Germany's lag
1. Low investment in automation technologies
China has invested heavily in automation technologies in recent years. These targeted measures have led to unprecedented growth in robot density in China. In 2023, China reached 470 robots per 10,000 employees, surpassing Germany, which had 429. Behind these figures lies a well-thought-out strategy: The Chinese government views automation as a key driver of industrial modernization and international competitiveness.
Germany, on the other hand, invests relatively hesitantly in new technologies. While numerous medium-sized companies are world leaders in mechanical engineering, the willingness to invest comprehensively in robotic solutions is often hampered by high costs and uncertainty about long-term economic benefits. A conservative attitude towards disruptive technologies still prevails in many German companies.
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2. Low growth rates in robot installations
Another problem is the comparatively low growth rate of robot installations in Germany. Between 2018 and 2023, this averaged only about 1% per year. By comparison, China achieved an average growth rate of around 12% during the same period. This dynamic illustrates how differently priorities are set in the two countries. While automation occupies a central place in China's national economic strategy, in Germany it is often seen as a supplement rather than a driver.
3. Lack of government support and strategic planning
The role of politics is another essential factor. In China, the government recognized early on that automation and robotics are crucial for long-term economic development. Therefore, large-scale programs and subsidies were introduced to encourage companies to invest in new technologies. This support has helped China achieve remarkable growth in robot density in a short period of time.
Comparable initiatives are lacking in Germany. While funding programs exist, they are often fragmented, bureaucratic, and insufficiently tailored to the needs of industry. As a result, many companies are left to their own devices when it comes to modernizing their production processes.
4. Market size and demand
Another factor explaining China's lead is the sheer size of its market. In 2023, 276,288 industrial robots were installed in China – representing approximately 51% of global installations. These figures illustrate the strength of demand from China's manufacturing sector. While Germany also boasts a robust industrial sector, the size of its domestic market and its specific requirements limit its potential for similarly strong growth.
Comparison with other countries
South Korea is another example of a country that far surpasses Germany in robot density. With 1,012 robots per 10,000 employees, South Korea leads the world, followed by Singapore with 770. These countries benefit from highly specialized industries such as electronics and automotive, which traditionally rely heavily on automation. In Germany, on the other hand, while the use of robots is also established, there is less dynamism in the further development and dissemination of new technologies.
A look at South Korea
A key difference between South Korea and Germany lies in the consistent integration of robotics into the national innovation strategy. In South Korea, automation is viewed not only as a current technology but also as a key to the future. This is reflected in extensive government investment and partnerships between the government, businesses, and research institutions. Furthermore, South Korea boasts a highly digitized working environment where technologies such as artificial intelligence and robotics can be seamlessly integrated.
Challenges for Germany
Despite all the setbacks, Germany has a solid foundation to keep pace in the global automation race. German industry has a long tradition of producing and exporting highly developed machines and robots. Companies like KUKA and Siemens remain among the world's leading suppliers. However, a consistent link between research, development, and practical application is often lacking.
Another problem is the skilled labor situation. The shortage of skilled workers in Germany affects not only traditional industrial professions, but increasingly also highly specialized roles in robotics and automation. This further complicates the development and implementation of new technologies.
Significance of cultural differences
An often overlooked factor is the cultural difference in how new technologies are handled. In Asia, particularly in China and South Korea, there is a greater willingness to quickly adopt new technologies and integrate them into everyday life. In Germany, on the other hand, there is often a wait-and-see attitude, characterized by concerns about data privacy, job losses, and societal impacts.
Perspectives for the future
Despite the challenges, Germany has the opportunity to strengthen its position in the field of automation. A key to this lies in cooperation between politics, industry, and science. A clear strategy is needed that not only promotes research and development of new technologies but also facilitates their practical application in companies.
Furthermore, targeted measures to promote robotics startups could help to revitalize the industry. Startups often possess the flexibility and innovative spirit to develop new solutions and bring them to market quickly.
More openness and willingness to innovate
Germany faces a crucial turning point: If the country wants to play a leading role in the international competition for automation and robotics, the existing shortcomings must be addressed urgently. This requires not only increased investment and stronger government support, but also a cultural shift towards greater openness and a willingness to innovate. Only in this way can Germany ensure that it remains among the world's leading industrial nations in the future.
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