Summary of CIIF 2025 Conference Call Industry Overview - **Industry**: Factory Automation in Japan - **Event**: China International Industry Fair (CIIF) 2025 held in Shanghai from September 23-27, 2025 - **Participants**: Included Japanese companies such as SMC, Misumi Group, Yaskawa Electric, Nabtesco, Mitsubishi Electric, NSK, Amada, and Greater China companies like Inovance, Airtac, Hiwin [2][6] Key Points Demand Environment - **Current Demand**: Demand remains steady, particularly in semiconductor and battery-related sectors, as well as medical-related businesses [3][11] - **Capex Recovery**: Capital expenditure-related demand has shown a steady recovery from low levels in the first half of the year, but no further recovery is expected in the latter half [3][4] - **General Outlook**: Most industry participants believe that current demand levels will hold steady without significant changes [3][4] Competitive Landscape - **Competition Intensity**: The competitive environment remains harsh, especially in middle- and low-end markets, with many companies struggling due to intensified competition [4][5] - **High-End Market Stability**: Conditions in high-end markets are largely unchanged, although local parts are increasingly adopted due to Chinese government onshoring policies [4][5] - **Company-Specific Insights**: - **Omron, Yaskawa Electric, SMC**: Facing stiff local competition and struggling somewhat [5] - **Fanuc and Nabtesco**: Competitive conditions appear stable due to strong product technologies [5] - **Misumi Group**: Has improved competitiveness through successful economy product launches and innovative products tailored for the Chinese market [5] Company Strategies - **Mitsubishi Electric**: Launched a second brand (Lingling) for the Chinese market, focusing on local development and manufacturing to reduce costs [9] - **Omron**: Plans to introduce new products tailored to the Chinese market, though these are not yet released [9] - **Yaskawa Electric**: Continues to focus on high-end markets and value-added products, avoiding low- and medium-end markets due to competition [12] - **Amada**: Reduced its Chinese business significantly over the past decade but sees future opportunities due to local manufacturers shifting to overseas production [13] - **NSK**: Focused on high-end applications with no significant changes in competitive environment [14] Additional Insights - **SMC's Focus**: Plans to concentrate on high-growth potential areas like semiconductors and medical equipment, despite tough competition in midrange markets [10] - **Misumi Group's Innovations**: Showcased new products including a small SCARA robot and AI agent for customer inquiries, with steady demand in semiconductor and medical sectors [11] Conclusion The factory automation industry in Japan is currently experiencing stable demand, particularly in high-tech sectors. However, competition remains fierce, especially in lower-end markets. Companies are adapting their strategies to enhance competitiveness and cater to local market needs, with a focus on innovation and local production.