The 137th China Import and Export Fair, commonly known as the Canton Fair, opened with a spectacular display of technological innovation on April 15, 2025. For the first time in its history, the fair introduced a dedicated Service Robot Zone, where intelligent robots from across China took center stage, captivating global buyers with their advanced capabilities and cutting-edge designs. The zone, spanning 4,200 square meters, served as a vibrant showcase of China’s prowess in artificial intelligence and robotics, with enterprises from Guangdong, Sichuan, Zhejiang, and Jiangsu presenting their most innovative solutions.
Foshan’s Technological Prowess Takes the Limelight
Foshan-based enterprises emerged as standout performers in the Service Robot Zone, demonstrating the city’s status as a hub for intelligent manufacturing. Guangdong Huibo Robot Technology Co., Ltd. presented two major product categories: an automatic cleaning robot designed for solar photovoltaic modules and artificial intelligence teaching equipment. The company’s vice president, Duan Feng, expressed excitement over a on-site purchase order from a South Korean client for 20 sets of educational equipment. “This year, we plan to expand our business to more than 10 overseas countries,” Duan revealed, highlighting the company’s focus on markets in the Middle East, North Africa, and Southeast Asia, where demand for new energy equipment and manufacturing transformation is robust. Huibo also intends to collaborate with overseas universities to export mature robot solutions internationally, underscoring Foshan’s ambition to lead in global robotic innovation .
Another Foshan enterprise, Guangdong Guanneng Power Technology Development Co., Ltd., drew significant attention with its live demonstration of a live-line connection robot. The company constructed a display scenario using metal frames, showcasing how the robot, equipped with machine vision, force sensors, distance sensors, and intelligent onboard computers, can precisely execute complex tasks like wire stripping, connection, and fastening. Yu Mingjie, head of Guanneng’s overseas business department, emphasized that these “robot substitutes” not only enhance operational efficiency but also remove workers from high-risk environments such as high-voltage and high-altitude zones, significantly reducing safety hazards. The robot attracted buyers from Malaysia, Israel, Russia, and Brazil, reflecting its international appeal and the growing global demand for intelligent industrial solutions .
Intelligent Robots Dazzle Global Buyers with Technical Marvels
The Service Robot Zone was a theater of technological marvels, where domestic intelligent robots “went viral” for their stunning and sophisticated movements. From backflips to handshakes and frog leaps, these high-difficulty actions drew crowds of amazed buyers. Zhejiang Hangzhou Yushu Technology Co., Ltd., whose robots impressed audiences during the Spring Festival Gala, showcased its star products: the humanoid robot G1 and the quadruped robot dog GO2. A market expansion specialist from the company highlighted that all core components, including motors, reducers, and controllers, as well as high-performance sensing and motion control algorithms, are independently developed. Notably, the G1 recently underwent a technical upgrade, becoming the world’s first humanoid robot capable of performing an in-place side flip, a feat that left onlookers in awe .
A spherical robot also garnered significant attention for its amphibious capabilities. Designed to assist SWAT teams in daily patrols, it can navigate complex terrains such as wilderness, 滩涂 (mudflats), and deserts, and has been widely applied in civil aviation airports and other sectors. Such versatility exemplifies the adaptability of Chinese intelligent robots across diverse industries .
Mr. Jose, a buyer from Venezuela, expressed his astonishment at the sheer variety of robot designs on display. “I’ve never seen so many innovative robot images; it’s truly impressive,” he said, noting that as a billboard manufacturer, he was considering placing an intelligent robot in supermarkets for customer reception. His interest underscores how intelligent robots are transcending industrial applications to reshape service sectors, opening new frontiers for market integration .
Canton Fair: A Microcosm of China’s Technological Leap in AI
The Service Robot Zone at the 137th Canton Fair served not only as a display platform but also as a microcosm of China’s rapid advancement in artificial intelligence. From dexterous robotic hands to delivery vehicles, cleaning machines, and smart devices, the diverse array of service robots on show vividly illustrated the nation’s innovation strength in this new technological frontier. Each robot, with its unique functions and applications, told a story of Chinese enterprises’ commitment to research and development, core technology autonomy, and global market expansion .
As global buyers marveled at the precision, agility, and intelligence of these machines, the message was clear: China is not just a participant but a leader in the global intelligent robot revolution. The Canton Fair, with its showcase of cutting-edge robotic solutions, has cemented its role as a bridge connecting Chinese innovation with international markets, driving the global adoption of intelligent robots and shaping the future of artificial intelligence .
In the bustling atmosphere of the fair, the constant buzz of “Amazing” and “Interesting” from international buyers echoed the universal recognition of China’s technological strides. The Service Robot Zone stood as a testament to how intelligent robots are transforming industries, enhancing daily life, and fostering cross-border collaboration, marking a new era of global technological cooperation and innovation . As the fair continues, these intelligent machines will undoubtedly pave the way for deeper international partnerships, reinforcing China’s position as a pioneer in the intelligent robot landscape.