Business

China’s Robotic Summit Shows A Changing Face of Humanoids

Published

9 months ago

August 26, 2024

Increasingly sophisticated technology is transforming industries, including manufacturing, agriculture and education also the humanoids industry is not left behind

As China seeks to race ahead in humanoid robot development, its supply chains showcased cheaper and innovative parts at the world robot conference in Beijing, but some executives warn the industry has yet to improve product reliability.

Wisson Technology (Shenzhen), known for its flexible robotic manipulators, does not depend on motors and reducers — transmission devices commonly used in robotics — but instead uses 3D-printed plastics and relies on pneumatic artificial muscles to power its robots.

This less expensive form of production allowed it to price its flexible arms at about one-tenth that of traditional robotic arms, said Cao Wei, an investor in Wisson through venture capital firm Lanchi Ventures, in which he is a partner.

Pliable technology will usher in robotic arms at a cost of about 10,000 yuan ($1,404), Wisson said on its website.

“(Wisson’s) pliable arms could be used in humanoids,” said Cao, adding that the company has already provided samples to overseas companies that make humanoid robots, without elaborating.

Yi Gang, founder of Shanghai-based Ti5 Robot, a company specializing in integrated joints, highlighted some of the problems he sees in the robotics supply chain.

“The whole supply chain still needs to address issues with product reliability,” said Yi, adding that due to defect rates, his company could make products in volumes of only up to 1,000.

Harmonic gear, which referred to machinery that played a key role in motion-control, was a key issue, he said.

China’s robotics effort is backed by President Xi Jinping’s policy of developing “new productive forces” in technology — a point made in brochures for last week’s event.

Across China, the world’s largest market for industrial robots, the increasingly sophisticated technology is changing the face of traditional industries such as manufacturing, cars, agriculture, education, health and home services.

Gao Jiyang, previously an executive director at Chinese autonomous driving start-up Momenta before founding Galaxea AI, a start-up focused on robot hardware and embodied AI, said the ramp-up in smart driving was leading to advances in robotics.

“Autonomous driving means AI-plus cars, which are also a type of robot,” Gao said.

As the conference wrapped up on Sunday, Premier Li Qiang said it was crucial to implement Xi’s guidelines on the importance of the robot industry.

“The robot industry has broad prospects and huge market potential,” Li said, according to China’s official Xinhua news agency.

Describing robots as an “important yardstick for technical innovation and high-end manufacturing strength”, Li called for efforts to maintain supply chain stability and progress on the international stage.

“It is necessary … to promote the expansion and popularization of robots in various fields such as industry, agriculture and service industry,” he said.

Abuja Reports

Abuja: Tinubu, Akpabio Lead Talks on Real Estate Reform

Published

2 weeks ago

May 5, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Ekaete Bassey

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio are billed to headline the 55th Annual National Conference and Annual General Meeting of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV), in Abuja.

The week-long event, themed “Transform, Invest, Thrive: Optimising Real Estate Finance and Taxation,” will run from May 5 to 10 at the Abuja Continental Hotel.

A statement by NIESV’s National Publicity Secretary, ESV Richard Olodu, confirmed Tinubu will serve as the special guest of honour, while Akpabio will attend as guest of honour.

The conference aims to chart a transformative path for real estate development through deeper fiscal reforms and investment strategies.

Also expected at the high-powered gathering are Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike; Minister of Housing, Ahmed Dangiwa; and Minister of Finance, Wale Edun.

Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service and Presidential Adviser on Revenue, Dr. Zacch Adedeji, will deliver the keynote address, expected to dissect current tax policies and their impact on property financing.

NIESV President, ESV Victor Adekunle Alonge, has extended an open invitation to estate professionals, public sector leaders, investors and diaspora stakeholders to partake in what he described as a defining moment for Nigeria’s real estate sector.

The conference is projected to offer insights capable of unlocking economic growth, with real estate positioned as a strategic anchor.

Business

Jubilation as MTN, Kogi End Tax Row

Published

2 weeks ago

May 1, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Adenike Lawal

Full telecom services have returned across Kogi State following the resolution of a prolonged dispute between MTN Nigeria and the Kogi State Government.

The disagreement, which had forced a shutdown of several network masts, disrupted connectivity for weeks, leaving businesses and residents frustrated.

Traders and digital service users, particularly in Lokoja, were hit hard by the blackout.

Gbenga Adebayo, Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria, confirmed that the matter has been amicably settled and that service providers can now operate without hindrance.

The shutdown stemmed from claims by the Kogi State Utility Infrastructure Management and Compliance Agency that MTN failed to meet regulatory requirements and had outstanding taxes related to its fibre optic network.

With the standoff now resolved, both parties have agreed to a compliance framework to avert future service interruptions.

The resolution has brought much-needed relief to thousands who rely daily on digital access for communication and business.

Business

Nigeria’s Cotton Industry Set to Reap $90bn by 2035

Published

3 weeks ago

April 28, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Ifeoluwa Odunayo

Nigeria’s cotton industry is poised for a major resurgence following the approval of the Cotton, Textile, and Garment Development Board (CTGDB) by the National Economic Council (NEC).

The initiative, a key part of the government’s economic strategy, is expected to generate up to $90 billion by 2035.

Funded through the Textile Import Levy from the Nigeria Customs Service, the CTGDB will be based in the Presidency.

While Nigeria has the potential to grow cotton in 34 states, current production remains low at just 13,000 metric tons annually.

The new plan aims to revive the industry, reduce textile imports, and create jobs, marking a significant step towards economic diversification.