Humanoid robotics is becoming a strategic technology for the coming decades. China is pursuing a systemic approach that combines industrial scale-up, government coordination, open innovation platforms and international standard-setting. Humanoid robots are seen not simply as industrial tools, but as future infrastructure for manufacturing, care, logistics and public services. The strategic importance of humanoid robotics lies in the development of complete industrial ecosystems with humanoid robotics becoming a hub for future technologies.

European industry therefore faces a dual challenge: the risk of technological and industrial dependence on key components and standards, and the danger that social, labour-law and ethical concerns are subordinated to industrial competition. Europe needs an independent humanoid robotics strategy that brings together technological sovereignty, social innovation, democratic regulation and industrial competitiveness. Public investment, open innovation ecosystems, active standardisation policy and social standards embedded across the value chain will be essential.