ASEAN Factories See Surge in Robot Orders as Automation Expands

Robotic Adoption Gains Momentum in ASEAN's Industrial Sector \\[10pt]\\ The second quarter of 2026 saw a significant increase in robot orders across North America, with 8,940 units valued at $622 million. This trend is not limited to North America; it is also evident in the ASEAN region, where factories are increasingly adopting automation to enhance productivity and efficiency. \\[10pt]\\ In Thailand, for instance, the automotive components sector has seen a 24% increase in robot orders, mirroring the global trend. This growth is particularly significant as it helps offset the decline in orders from automotive OEMs, which fell by 25%. Similarly, in Vietnam, the electronics and semiconductor industries have experienced a 35% increase in robot orders, reflecting the country's growing importance in the global supply chain. \\[10pt]\\ Indonesia and Malaysia are also witnessing a surge in automation adoption. The food and consumer goods sector in Indonesia has seen a 17% increase in robot orders, while the metals industry in Malaysia has grown by 3%. These trends indicate that the demand for automation is broadening across various sectors, not just in the traditional automotive and electronics industries. \\[10pt]\\ ## Collaborative Robots: A Key Driver of Growth \\[10pt]\\ Collaborative robots, or cobots, are playing a crucial role in this expansion. In the first half of 2026, companies in the ASEAN region ordered 2,774 collaborative robots, accounting for 15.4% of all robot units. This is particularly evident in the life sciences and pharmaceutical sectors, where cobots make up 43.7% of robot orders. The flexibility and safety features of cobots make them ideal for environments where human-robot collaboration is essential. \\[10pt]\\ ## Economic Conditions Support Continued Investment \\[10pt]\\ Despite economic uncertainties, manufacturers in ASEAN continue to invest in automation. The manufacturing PMI in the region remains in expansion territory, indicating continued growth in new orders and production. For example, in June, manufacturing output in Thailand was 1.1% above its year-earlier level, a positive sign for the industry. \\[10pt]\\ The broader economic conditions, combined with the long-term benefits of automation, such as increased productivity and reduced labor costs, are driving this investment. As Alex Shikany, Executive Vice President at A3, notes, the mix of the robotics market is evolving, with automotive remaining an important driver but with significant growth in other sectors. \\[10pt]\\ ## Takeaway for Factory Buyers \\[10pt]\\ For factory buyers in ASEAN, the data suggests that investing in automation, particularly in collaborative robots, can provide a competitive edge. The diversification of robot orders across various industries indicates that the benefits of automation are not limited to a single sector. By embracing these technologies, factories can improve their operational efficiency, reduce costs, and stay ahead in a rapidly changing market. \\[10pt]\\ As the trend towards automation continues, it is essential for factory buyers to consider how these technologies can be integrated into their operations to maximize their potential. Whether in automotive, electronics, or food and consumer goods, the future of manufacturing in ASEAN is increasingly automated, and staying ahead of the curve is key to success.