Innovating in Asia Study 2023

As the manufacturing sector moves towards Industry 4.0, digital transformation is becoming essential for businesses to stay competitive. But how can traditional machine builders and automation companies navigate this new era? Ruhlamat's journey provides answers. In this article we dive into their journey and highlight the key factors that enable them to consistently outgrow the market.

Robotic manipulation technologies, which comprise arms, grippers, and end effectors, are pivotal in transforming global manufacturing and logistics industries. China's strategic investments in this field have significantly boosted its capabilities, aligning with its national objective to advance in high-tech manufacturing. By integrating cutting- edge materials, AI, and modular designs, Chinese companies have developed adaptable and economical robotic solutions, strengthening their position in the global market. Technological advancements in robotic manipulation have led to innovations in gripper flexibility, sensor integration, and the rise of collaborative robots (cobots). These advancements enable precise handling of a diverse range of objects, catering to the complex requirements of contemporary manufacturing and distribution sectors. Despite these achievements, challenges such as the need for standardized safety protocols, protection of intellectual property, and overcoming expor

The service robotics industry is central to China's strategy for economic and technological leadership. The sector, projected to reach significant market growth by 2026, is increasingly integrated into healthcare, logistics, and consumer services, underscoring its role in national innovation agendas. Leveraging advances in AI and manufacturing, Chinese firms have rapidly developed competitive, cost-effective robots, enhancing their global market presence. Recent technological progress has been driven by substantial government support and strategic industry initiatives. Chinese companies like Pudu Robotics and KEENON Robotics exemplify this growth, expanding both domestically and internationally. This progress is facilitated by integrated AI technologies, enabling service robots to operate effectively across various environments. However, challenges such as foreign component dependency and the establishment of safety standards remain. Addressing these issues is crucial for sustained g

In early 2025, an unknown Chinese startup named DeepSeek launched DeepSeek-R1, an open-source large language model (LLM) that made global headlines. The model not only rivaled established LLMs such as GPT-4, Llama 3.1, and Claude in performance but achieved this at significantly lower costs and with reduced training data requirements. DeepSeek's achievement wasn't an isolated event. Rather, it reflected years of groundwork that has shaped China's AI ecosystem—carefully fostered through academic research, talent cultivation, innovation under constraints, and fierce internal competition. How is China orchestrating this transformation, and what does it mean for global businesses and investors?

How can machine builders digitalize? A one-size-fits-all approach to digital transformation is not feasible. The key to success is learning and building capabilities through small steps, with regular review and adjustment. Start small, but act fast. Learn how with this case study highlighting the digitalization journey of a leading PCB equipment manufacturer.

Vietnam is making ambitious moves to position itself as a leader in artificial intelligence (AI) by transforming Ho Chi Minh City into the world’s first AI-powered city by 2030. This initiative, unveiled at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos earlier in 2025, is more than just a technological endeavor—it represents a strategic vision to redefine urban development, foster economic growth, and place Vietnam at the forefront of global innovation.