This report summarizes the results of a survey project for building sustainable production infrastructure for small and medium food manufacturing businesses using robots, conducted by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry in FY 2024.
Small and medium food manufacturing businesses face challenges including labor shortages, productivity improvement, and ensuring food safety, making the strengthening of production infrastructure through the introduction of robot technology, AI, IoT, and other digital technologies an urgent necessity.
This survey conducted detailed analysis of the introduction records, effects, and challenges of robot technology in small and medium food manufacturing industries. It verified how robot technology is utilized in each process including food processing, packaging, inspection, and transportation, and what effects it brings.
Survey results confirmed effects such as improved labor productivity, quality stabilization, and work environment improvement through robot introduction. However, challenges were also revealed including the burden of initial investment, shortage of technical personnel, and compatibility with existing equipment.
Particularly for small and medium enterprises, it was found that cost reduction for introduction, operation simplification, and enhancement of maintenance systems are important factors. Additionally, the necessity of comprehensive support measures including utilization of subsidy systems, technology introduction support, and human resource development was pointed out.
The survey results are expected to be utilized as important reference materials for strengthening competitiveness of small and medium food manufacturing industries and formulating robot technology dissemination promotion policies in the future.