Chinese Forklift Leaders Expand into Smart Logistics and Robotics, Donghai Says

China’s leading forklift manufacturers are expanding into smart logistics and logistics robotics, according to a machinery sector research report released by Donghai Securities on October 21, 2026. The report highlighted a rebound in forklift export growth in September alongside manufacturers’ increased emphasis on intelligent and new energy products.

Hangcha Group plans to raise RMB 2.259 billion to expand robotic forklift production capacity and research and development. The report also identified Anhui Heli among the domestic forklift leaders actively developing their presence in smart logistics and logistics robotics, suggesting these moves could reshape competition in the logistics industry.

The proposed funding highlights two connected priorities: developing robotic forklift products and building the capacity to manufacture them. Investment in both areas could help move robotics ambitions toward commercial deployment, although a fundraising proposal does not itself establish when additional capacity will become operational or how much customer demand it will attract.

A broader competitive shift could emerge if these manufacturers turn their product investments into reliable logistics applications. In that case, competition could increasingly involve how effectively equipment fits into customers’ logistics operations, alongside the capabilities of individual forklifts. The scale of that shift will depend on execution and adoption.

The export figures and robotics investments also warrant separate readings. Faster export growth in September signals an improvement in the pace of overseas sales growth, but does not establish that robotics or new energy products drove the rebound. Likewise, the announced investment plans indicate strategic direction rather than a demonstrated change in market position.

Further company disclosures on fundraising progress, capacity development and commercial deployment will help show how quickly these plans translate into operating results. For now, the report points to a widening focus among China’s forklift leaders, while the eventual effect on logistics competition remains dependent on delivery and customer uptake.