The casting machine tool industry has experienced rapid growth, driven by demand from automotive, aerospace, and construction sectors, but this expansion has  several critical shortcomings that hinder long-term sustainability and global competitiveness.

One major issue is overreliance on low-cost, low-tech production. Many manufacturers prioritize quantity over quality, focusing on standardized, low-precision casting machines to meet short-term demand. This leads to a glut of generic products, with limited innovation in high-precision, automated casting systems. As a result, the industry struggles to compete with advanced international manufacturers in high-end markets, where precision tolerances and smart features are required.

Technological dependency is another challenge. Key components like high-precision servo motors, advanced control systems, and heat-resistant alloys are often imported, as domestic production lags in material science and engineering. This reliance increases production costs and vulnerability to supply chain disruptions, limiting the ability to innovate independently.

Environmental concerns are also prominent. Traditional casting processes generate significant waste, including metal scraps, hazardous fumes (from molten metal), and wastewater containing heavy metals. Rapid growth has outpaced the adoption of eco-friendly technologies, leading to non-compliance with stringent environmental regulations in developed markets. This not only raises operational risks but also restricts access to global markets with strict sustainability standards.

Skilled labor shortages exacerbate these issues. The industry’s expansion has created a demand for technicians trained in advanced casting technologies (e.g., computer-controlled casting, 3D printing integration), but vocational training programs have not kept pace. This skills gap leads to inefficient production, increased defects, and slower adoption of new technologies.

fragmented industry structure—with many small and medium enterprises (SMEs) lacking R&D capabilities—hinders collaborative innovation. Unlike consolidated international competitors, SMEs struggle to invest in long-term research, limiting breakthroughs in materials, process optimization, and digitalization. Addressing these shortcomings requires policy support for R&D, investment in green technologies, and enhanced vocational training to build a sustainable, high-quality casting machine tool industry.