China: China's 3D printing device output jumps over 50 pct in Jan-April.

Storyline China's 3D printing device output jumps over 50 pct in Jan-April New data from China's National Bureau of Statistics shows that the country's 3D printing sector grew by more than half in the first four months of the year. According to the information, production of 3D printing devices grew by 50.9 percent year on year, highlighting their move from laboratories to the consumer market, with Chinese companies producing about 90 percent of consumer-grade 3D printers globally. Xue Lei, employee, 3D printing company: "In recent years, the mass application of additive manufacturing has increased significantly, gradually expanding from aerospace and high-end equipment to industrial fields including robotics and consumer electronics." Beyond technological breakthroughs, the rapid growth in exports of consumer-grade 3D printing devices is also driving the overall output increase. Data shows that from January to April, China exported 2.4 million units of 3D printing equipment, up more than 100 percent year on year. [Restrictions: No access Chinese mainland]