South Korea’s industrial robot manufacturers have lodged an anti-dumping complaint against Chinese and Japanese competitors, accusing them of unfair pricing practices that are disrupting the local market.
Five South Korean firms, including HD Hyundai Robotics, submitted the complaint to the Korea Trade Commission on Jan. 10. The companies claim that Chinese and Japanese manufacturers are exporting multi-axis industrial robots to South Korea at prices significantly below their domestic market rates.
The robots in question, equipped with four or more axes, are essential in manufacturing tasks such as assembly, painting, and welding. Industry reports indicate that Chinese and Japanese suppliers have been undercutting domestic competitors by offering their products at approximately 40% below their home market prices. These aggressive pricing strategies have allowed them to secure contracts with South Korean automakers, a key customer base for local producers.
This is not the first time South Korea has taken action against low-cost imports. In 2005, the government imposed anti-dumping duties on Japanese industrial robots after a surge of inexpensive products flooded the market. Those duties remained in effect for five years.
“The influx of low-priced Chinese products over the past two years has intensified competition, leaving domestic manufacturers struggling to stay profitable,” said a representative from a South Korean robot manufacturer. “The financial strain has become significantly worse over the past year.”
