Robotics : Europe loses its leading position

In the global race for robotics, Europe has lost its leading position and risks falling behind quickly. Without immediate action, European industry will experience the same decline currently being seen in the automotive industry in Europe.

Johan Geeroms, our Risk Underwriting Director for Benelux: "China is overtaking Europe. Last year, more than half of all industrial robots worldwide were put into service in China. With programs such as “Made in China,” the country is fully committed to automation and robotization. Not only to increase production, but also to cope with the consequences of an aging population."

Over the past five years, the global robotics industry has grown by 230% and is expected to exceed $100 billion by 2030.

Robotics is not just a matter of technological progress, but also an economic necessity. Europe is aging rapidly and facing structural labor shortages, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, logistics, and healthcare. Robots can partially compensate for these shortages and thus maintain Europe's productivity and competitiveness.

According to our report, five key measures are needed to reverse the trend:

1. Develop a European roadmap for robotics: Europe needs a common strategy to combat fragmentation.
2. More capital for start-ups and innovators: the lack of a mature venture capital market is holding back innovation.
3. Accelerate innovation from the lab to the market: Europe excels in research but struggles to turn innovations into successful businesses.
4. Invest in training and reskilling: There is a critical shortage of technical personnel. Without large-scale upskilling, the deployment of robotics risks stalling.
5. Ensure smarter regulation that stimulates innovation: Europe is at the forefront of AI regulation, but strict rules can stifle innovation.

According to Johan Geeroms, the report is very clear: "Our position as a major industrial power is at stake. If Europe does not act now, we risk missing the boat for good. Everyone must understand that robotics is not a distant vision, but an essential driver for a competitive and resilient Europe. Acting today means winning tomorrow... in terms of productivity, innovation capacity, and geopolitical autonomy."