Core Viewpoint - The humanoid robot industry is expected to double its annual shipment volume in the coming years, with significant advancements anticipated in technology and applications [1][5][7]. Group 1: Industry Growth and Projections - IDC reports indicate that China's humanoid robot commercial sales are projected to reach approximately 2,000 units in 2024, with an expected increase to 60,000 units by 2030, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 95.3% [7]. - Wang Xingxing, CEO of Yushu Technology, believes that the global humanoid robot industry can guarantee annual shipment volume to double, with potential for significant spikes in shipments if technological breakthroughs occur [6][7]. - The global humanoid robot shipment volume may reach 18,000 units by 2025, with a forecasted increase to 1 million units by 2030 and 10 million units by 2035, driven by factors such as aging population, labor shortages, and advancements in AI technology [7]. Group 2: Current Challenges and Future Outlook - Currently, humanoid robots are primarily showcased in performances rather than practical applications, as the technology is not yet mature enough for widespread deployment in industrial settings [3][4]. - Wang emphasizes that the industry needs time for technological advancements, comparing the current state of humanoid robots to early computers, which required time for software development to become useful [4]. - The potential for a "robot tax" is discussed, suggesting that once robots can perform significant work, a taxation system could be implemented based on the value they generate [4][6]. Group 3: Company Performance and Market Position - Yushu Technology has emerged as a leader in the humanoid robot market, with an estimated shipment of 1,400 units in 2024, making it the highest in global humanoid robot shipments [6]. - The company has secured a procurement project worth 46.05 million yuan from China Mobile (Hangzhou) Information Technology Co., indicating recognition and progress in commercial applications [6]. - Wang stresses the importance of product quality and customer experience in maintaining a competitive edge in both domestic and international markets [6].

Core Viewpoint - The discussion around "robot tax" has resurfaced, with calls for taxation on robots and AI systems to support social security and address potential job losses due to automation [1][4][5]. Group 1: Background and Historical Context - The concept of taxing machines has been debated since the 1950s, evolving from "machine tax" to "robot tax" and "AI tax" [3]. - The European Parliament rejected a proposal for a "robot tax" in 2017, which was welcomed by the robotics industry, citing concerns over innovation and employment [3][4]. Group 2: Arguments For and Against Robot Tax - Proponents argue that a "robot tax" could provide funding for basic income to support those displaced by automation [4][5]. - Critics warn that imposing such a tax could hinder corporate profitability and innovation, potentially leading to reduced employment opportunities [4][6]. Group 3: Global Perspectives and Initiatives - Various countries and organizations have proposed or discussed the implementation of a "robot tax," including India and Germany, where political support exists among certain parties [5][6]. - In South Korea, a tax reform reduced incentives for automation investments, reflecting a similar approach to taxing automation indirectly [6]. Group 4: Taxation Models and Concepts - Concepts like "Human Equivalent Effort Time" (HEET) have been proposed as a basis for taxing AI and robots, suggesting a shift from traditional income tax models [8]. - Some experts suggest that companies using AI should pay higher taxes compared to traditional businesses, with proposals for a global framework for AI taxation [8]. Group 5: Economic Implications and Employment Impact - Estimates suggest that AI could displace up to 300 million jobs globally, affecting 25% of the workforce [10]. - However, there is debate over the extent of job losses, with some studies indicating that new job creation may offset losses in certain sectors [10][12].