Focusing on scenarios such as intelligent manufacturing, cultural-tourism and education, lifestyle services, healthcare and elderly care, and urban governance, Ningbo will build a national embodied-intelligence innovation highland led by humanoid robots, characterised by “advantaged bodies + strong industrial chain + extensive application scenarios.”

On 5 June the city issued the Action Plan for Innovative Development of the Humanoid-Robot Industry in Ningbo (2025–2027). Over three years Ningbo will refine its industry layout, create a provincial pioneer zone for the future industry of humanoid robots, expand to 25 typical application scenarios and attract more than 100 innovation and start-up teams.

Humanoid robots—possessing human-like form and functions—integrate advanced technologies in high-end manufacturing, new materials and artificial intelligence, and represent a strategic high ground and new track for future industry.

The city will concentrate on the robot “brain” and “cerebellum,” accelerate model innovation for the “brain” and strengthen the “cerebellum.” At the same time Ningbo will focus on robot limbs, dexterous hands, actuators, controllers, intelligent sensors, new materials, body fabrication and system integration, striving to create a nationally leading cluster.

Relying on Yongjiang Science & Innovation Zone, Haishu district and Yuyao, the city will nurture and expand whole-machine enterprises and build a leading area for complete humanoid robots. Yuyao, Jiangbei and the Hi-tech Zone will develop multi-modal sensors; Cixi, Ninghai, Beilun and the Hi-tech Zone will focus on new materials, structural parts and actuators.

Application efforts will explore “humanoid robot + intelligent manufacturing” in automotive, apparel, home-appliance and chemical sectors; expand service scenarios in security, consumer finance, eldercare, home healthcare, retail guidance and exhibition touring; and leverage port logistics to pioneer “humanoid robot + port” applications.