ABB and SoftBank are considering separating ABB’s China robotics operations after Chinese authorities barred the planned purchase there, as the companies explore a way to keep the wider $5.375 billion transaction moving.
China represents the largest national market for ABB’s robotics business. More than 7,000 people work in the business, which provides robotic systems and related equipment to manufacturers such as BMW.
SoftBank agreed to acquire the robotics business in October 2025 for $5.375 billion. A carve-out would leave the Chinese operations outside the proposed transfer while discussions continue on the wider deal. SoftBank has tied the acquisition to its effort to expand in artificial intelligence.
ABB said SoftBank informed it that the acquisition had been prohibited in China. ABB has said the companies remain in dialogue and are continuing work on the transaction. EconoTimes previously covered an earlier report on China’s ban.
