Unitree Robotics received approval for a Shanghai IPO on June 1, 2026, marking a key step for the Chinese robotics sector [1, 2, 3]. At least 46 robotics-related companies have IPO applications pending in Hong Kong, comprising more than 10% of total applicants, with firms such as Leju Robotics and Deep Robotics among those preparing listings [1, 2, 3].

China accounted for half of the world’s industrial robots and 85% of humanoid robots in 2025, cementing its dominant manufacturing position in robotics [1, 2, 3]. Market watchers see humanoid robots potentially representing about 3.8% of China’s labor capacity by 2035, reflecting a long-term shift in industrial and service sectors [1, 2, 3].

Shares of OneRobotics in Shenzhen surged as much as 18% on June 2 in Hong Kong trading, while mainland shares of component maker Leader Harmonious Drive Systems rose 11%, signaling investor enthusiasm following Unitree’s IPO approval [2, 3].

Sheng Zhong, head of China industrials research at Morgan Stanley, said Chinese humanoids are “one step closer to IPOs, igniting market interest on humanoids in the second half of 2026,” adding that most IPOs will direct proceeds towards research and development, particularly robot models [1]. Barclays analysts called the current era “the decade of the robot – and it belongs to China,” citing a decade-long, state-led push powering the leadership [1].

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang expressed support for collaboration with Unitree Robotics on humanoid AI, emphasizing China’s race to lead in “physical AI” through funding and industrialization [2].

Despite the enthusiasm, some investors remain cautious, noting robotics companies may burn cash for years and that “valuations may be ahead of earnings” amid a sector trading at about 40 times forward earnings. The humanoid robot stock index in 2026 fell 13% after a 47% gain in 2025, while the ChinaAMC CSI Robot ETF faced net outflows through most of 2026 [1, 2].

The IPO surge follows a strategic shift in China from innovation to large-scale deployment in robotics and AI, supported by government policies and control over supply chains [1, 2, 3]. Funds raised from these IPOs are expected primarily to advance R&D efforts.

Unitree Robotics’ IPO approval on June 1 has sparked a wave of market activity and signals a critical financing phase. Investor attention will focus on execution and financial performance as many IPO applications progress through regulatory review in the months ahead [1, 2, 3].