Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/10419/336697 
Authors: 
Year of Publication: 
2025
Series/Report no.: 
Working Paper No. 14
Publisher: 
University of Athens, Department of Economics, International Economics and Development Laboratory (IEDL), Athens
Abstract: 
This paper analyses the stark divergence in industrial robot adoption between China and India, benchmarking their trajectories in terms of scale, density, and sectoral and task diversity. Employing a three-factor analytical framework - labour market pressures, industrial structure, and government policy - the study explains China's rapid, state-orchestrated automation, which has bolstered export competitiveness despite rising wages. In contrast, India's adoption remains incremental and concentrated, constrained by its labour-abundant economy and less activist policy stance. The analysis reveals distinct implications: China enhances economic resilience but faces social risks from workforce displacement, while India preserves employment stability at the cost of global competitiveness and productivity. The findings underscore the critical need for policy realignment in both nations to harness the benefits of automation while mitigating its socioeconomic costs.
Subjects: 
Industrial Robotics
Automation
China
India
Technological Divergence
Industrial Policy
JEL: 
J24
O33
O14
L52
O53
Document Type: 
Working Paper

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