UBTech to build a humanoid factory in Almaty, Kazakhstan

UBTech Robotics announced plans to build a factory in Almaty, Kazakhstan, marking one of the first overseas manufacturing footprints for a Chinese humanoid robot maker.

The plant will assemble UBTech’s humanoid and service robots for Central Asian and neighboring markets, putting production closer to buyers in logistics, retail, and public services.

The move follows a familiar playbook: localize production to navigate tariffs, compete for government contracts, and shorten the distance between factory and customer. Kazakhstan’s push to digitize its economy makes it a natural beachhead.

It also signals a new phase in the humanoid race. The contest is no longer just about who builds the best robot in Shenzhen or Silicon Valley — it’s about who can manufacture, sell, and service them across dozens of countries.

Expect more "made abroad" announcements from Chinese robot makers as the industry globalizes.