According to the Industrial Federation of Robotics (IFR), the installation of industrial robots in Japan experienced a significant increase in 2022, reaching a total of 50,413 units. This represents a growth rate of 9% and surpasses the pre-pandemic level recorded in 2019, which stood at 49,908 units. Japan currently holds the second-largest market for industrial robots globally, trailing only behind China. Additionally, Japan is the leading country in terms of industrial robot manufacturing, commanding a global market share of 46%.
The IFR's recent report, published on September 25, 2023, highlights the substantial growth in industrial robot installations in Japan. Moreover, Japan now holds a 46% market share in the manufacturing of industrial robots. This further solidifies its position as a dominant player in the industry.
Japan's industrial robot market has also experienced a surge in exports, reaching a record high value of ¥496 billion (US$3.8 billion) in 2022. This represents a remarkable increase of 21% compared to the previous year. Additionally, the production of industrial robots in Japan reached a new peak level of 256,807 units in 2022, signifying an 11% increase from the previous year. Over the period from 2017 to 2022, domestic production in Japan has grown steadily at an average rate of 4% per year.
Despite concerns over rising energy prices and the cost of raw materials, the weakening yen has actually provided a silver lining for Japan's robotics industry. As the yen weakens against the US dollar, exports become more affordable, potentially benefiting the Japanese economy. Economic observers, therefore, predict a potential boost in the Japanese robotics industry.
Marina Bill, a spokesperson for the IFR, highlighted the record-breaking performance of Japanese exports, which reached a peak level of 207,737 units in 2022. This represents a 12% increase from the previous peak level in 2021. The export ratio for Japanese robots also rose by 1 percentage point to reach 81%. On the other hand, Japan's imports of robots remained relatively low, with only 1,343 units imported in 2022, accounting for a mere 3% of the total installations.
In conclusion, Japan's industrial robot installation witnessed significant growth in 2022, surpassing pre-pandemic levels and solidifying the country's position as a major player in the industry. With a strong market share in industrial robot manufacturing and increasing export numbers