President’s Report by Takayuki Ito

Review 2025 - Outlook 2026

Dear Reader,

It is my pleasure to open this edition of our quarterly newsletter as we approach the end of 2025 - a year that has brought remarkable momentum, important breakthroughs, and renewed confidence to the global robotics community.

The economic environment has remained complex, shaped by geopolitical uncertainties, shifting supply strategies, and ongoing transformations in key industries. Yet robotics continues to stand out as a stabilizing force and an essential driver of competitiveness. Across many regions, we see companies returning to investment plans that had been postponed in previous years. Demand for automation - both industrial and service-oriented - continues to recover as businesses strengthen resilience and prepare for long-term growth.

This year’s IFR statistical work has once again provided valuable insights. Our data not only serves as an important benchmark and guide for companies within the robotics industry, but is increasingly relied upon by governments, the financial sector, and investors. We are particularly proud that IFR statistics are recognized and cited in authoritative publications such as the Artificial Intelligence Index Report by Stanford University and the Global Innovation Index (GII) published by the United Nations’ WIPO.

At the same time, major technological themes of 2025 have been unmistakable. Advances in AI-enabled robotics, autonomous mobile systems, and human-robot collaboration are accelerating innovation. And of course, the ongoing progress in humanoid robotics has led to new discussions with policymakers, investors, and end-users about the opportunities and guardrails needed to ensure safe and beneficial deployment. Throughout the year, we intensified our internal analyses of these developments, and we look forward to sharing our consolidated outlook on the key trends shaping 2026 during the first quarter of next year.

This year also brought unique opportunities to engage with our community in person. The IFR Executive Night, held for the first time during the Automatica fair in Munich, was an outstanding success. It was well received by global industry leaders that enjoyed the inspiring stimulus of the two keynote speakers on AI and Robotics and the vibrant exchange and networking at the eve of the fair. The evening underscored the importance of providing dedicated platforms for strategic dialogue as our industry evolves. Events like these will become an important pillar of our work going forward.

Looking to 2026, we anticipate a year rich in milestones - from a series of dedicated robotics fairs and events to activities within the IFR that aim to foster collaboration, share knowledge, and further elevate the voice of our global membership. The continued growth of service robotics, the maturation of mobile systems, and the broader integration of AI all signal that we are entering a highly dynamic phase for our industry.

Finally, I want to express my sincere appreciation to all members, national associations, and partners who have supported the IFR throughout 2025. Your contributions—in data, insights, committee participation, and expertise—enable us to represent the robotics community with depth and credibility.

Wishing you a peaceful holiday season and a healthy, prosperous New Year.

Warm regards,

Takayuki Ito