China on Friday opened the World Humanoid Robot Games, a three-day sports showcase featuring humanoid robots from 16 countries competing in events ranging from table tennis and football to track and field. The event, which drew 280 teams including 192 from universities and 88 from private enterprises, highlights Beijings ambition to position itself at the forefront of robotics and artificial intelligence.
Robots will not only engage in conventional sports but also demonstrate practical applications in areas such as sorting medicines, handling materials, and cleaning services. Among the competitors are humanoids developed by leading Chinese firms such as Unitree and Fourier, reflecting the countrys growing ecosystem of robotics companies.
The Beijing municipal government is a co-organiser of the games, underscoring the political weight placed on robotics development as China confronts both an ageing population and slowing economic growth. Over the past year, the sector has received more than 20 billion in subsidies, while Beijing is also planning a one trillion yuan 137 billion fund to back AI and robotics startups.
