According to the International Federation of Robotics (IFR), approximately 517,000 new industrial robots were installed worldwide in 2021.
Of this number, 74% of industrial robot installations were in Asian factories. The remaining 26% were distributed across Europe and America.
Broken down by country, the largest market for industrial robots in 2021 was China, with approximately 268,000 units installed. Japan and the United States followed, as detailed in the graph.
The IFR stated that the global installation of industrial robots in 2021 was the highest ever recorded.
"The use of robots and automation is growing at an astonishing rate," said the IFR in a press release accompanying the publication of its *World Robotics* report in October 2022.
The IFR projects this trend to continue in the future.
"Rising energy prices and the scarcity of electronic components are indeed challenges for all sectors. But, orders for industrial robots are full, and demand has never been higher. Global industrial robot installations are expected to grow by 10% in 2022," said the IFR.