A foreign journalist films a demonstration of a robot dog's load-carrying capabilities. [Photo/WeChat account: dskbdskb]

During a visit to Hangzhou-based robotics company Unitree Robotics, foreign journalists from countries including Brazil, Germany and Japan aimed to look beyond eye-catching robot demonstrations by exploring the broader innovation ecosystem driving China's robotics industry.

A humanoid robot undergoing dynamic tests drew particular attention, with reporters closely examining signs of wear from intensive use. Questions quickly turned to the technology behind the machines, including the extent of domestic innovation and supply-chain independence.

Company representatives said key components such as motors and reducers are developed in-house, while efforts to increase the use of domestically produced chips are ongoing.

Journalists also focused on Zhejiang's policy environment and talent ecosystem as they asked whether government support and talent policies could sustain long-term research and development.

Company officials highlighted Zhejiang's supportive business environment and growing industrial ecosystem. They mentioned how Hangzhou recently introduced China's first local regulation dedicated to embodied intelligence and humanoid robotics, covering innovation, industrial deployment and safety management.

Commercialization was another major topic. Reporters asked about production capacity and real-world applications. Unitree said it has achieved automated mass production, with products sold across North America, Europe and the Asia-Pacific region. Its quadruped robots are already used in power inspection and emergency response, while humanoid robots are being tested for logistics and assembly tasks in manufacturing facilities.

According to company data, Unitree shipped more than 5,500 humanoid robots in 2025, ranking first globally, while cumulative shipments of its quadruped robots exceeded 30,000 units.

The visit was part of a broader media tour organized by China's State Council Information Office, allowing foreign journalists to get a firsthand look at Zhejiang's progress in technological innovation, industrial development and commercialization.

A delegation of foreign journalists visits Hangzhou-based Unitree Robotics. [Photo/WeChat account: dskbdskb]