Rich economies better equipped to adopt AI - IMF

(ANSA) - ROME, JUL 19 - The most affluent economies tend to be better equipped to adopt artificial intelligence (AI) compared to low-income countries, according to the International Monetary Fund's new AI Preparedness Index Dashboard.
    The research tracks 174 economies based on their preparedness in four areas: digital infrastructure, human capital and labour policies, innovation and economic integration, and regulation.
    Countries are at different stages of preparation in exploiting the potential benefits of artificial intelligence and in managing its risks, IMF experts observed.
    In most scenarios, AI use is set to worsen inequality, a concerning trend which politicians can prevent with targeted actions, they said.
    In this context, the dashboard can be useful to politicians, researchers and the public to better evaluate the level of preparedness for AI and to identify necessary actions and policies to guarantee that the advantages of artificial intelligence can benefit all.
    An example made by researchers is the labour market.
    Approximately 30% of jobs in advanced economies could benefit from the integration of the new technology, with better salaries or increased productivity, they noted.
    Younger workers could also take advantage of opportunities in a more efficient way while older ones could have a harder time adapting to changes, the IMF warned.
    The experts thus outlined different priorities.
    In advanced economies, policy makers should work to widen social security networks, to invest in training for workers and prioritize innovation and AI integration.
    Countries would also need to coordinate globally to boost regulations to safeguard people from the potential risks and abuse of AI.
    Emerging markets and developing economies should instead prioritize investments in digital infrastructures and the digital training of workers. (ANSA).