(Yicai Global) March 6 -- CSG Smart Robot Technology Co., a Chinese intelligent robot developer affiliated with CSG Smart Science & Technology Co., has received CNY55.3 million (USD8.7 million) in support from the central government.

Shanghai's local development and reform commission branch notified the artificial intelligence subsidiary that its high-end intelligent robot production project has been included in a special investment program the central government is sponsoring to "enhance manufacturers' core competitiveness," the company said yesterday.

CSG said last March that it would build a robotics and AI industry base in Shanghai with total investment of CNY1.1 billion (USD173 million). The project aims to facilitate the company's efforts to develop new AI and service robot businesses and promote existing smart logistics services and industrial robot applications.

Its facilities will mainly comprise an AI research institute, a smart robot research and development center, a robotics application integration commissioning center, as well as offices and accommodation. Construction work will last 24 months.