2015 machine tool annual consumption forecast 850 billion

According to the "Twelfth Five-Year Development Plan for the Machine Tool Industry" released by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, China's machine tool market is expected to see steady growth during the 12th Five-Year Period, with an average annual growth rate surpassing 10%. By 2015, the total annual consumption is projected to reach nearly 850 billion yuan. This represents a significant opportunity for both domestic and international players in the manufacturing sector.

The machine tool industry is considered a strategic high-tech sector in China, with CNC (Computer Numerical Control) technology at its core. As the backbone of modern manufacturing, CNC systems play a crucial role in enhancing productivity, precision, and efficiency across various industries, including automotive, aerospace, and electronics.

During the previous "Eleventh Five-Year Plan" period, the domestic market share for mid-range CNC systems was only around 35%, while over 95% of high-end CNC systems were imported. This dependency on foreign technology created a gap between the development of CNC systems and the production of CNC machine tools, often referred to as the "two skins" phenomenon. This lack of integration hindered mutual support and collaboration, preventing the formation of strong industrial alliances and shared interest communities. As a result, both the CNC system and machine tool industries faced limitations in terms of innovation and competitiveness.

Under the new 12th Five-Year Plan, the Chinese government has set ambitious goals for the machine tool industry. It is anticipated that by 2015, the annual demand for CNC systems will reach approximately 400,000 units, with the output of CNC machine tools exceeding 250,000 units. The domestic market share is expected to rise above 70%, indicating a growing confidence in locally produced equipment. Additionally, exports of machine tools are expected to remain stable and continue to expand, with the total export value reaching about $11 billion by 2015.

CNC technology remains a key driver for the advancement of China's manufacturing sector. As the country continues to invest in research and development, the long-term vision is to reduce reliance on foreign technology and build a self-sufficient, competitive, and innovative machine tool industry that can support the broader goals of national economic development.