IMF Warns: AI to Transform 40% of Global Jobs, Positively or Negatively

Reuters·Yonhap News

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has projected that artificial intelligence (AI) will impact roughly 40% of jobs worldwide. Out of these jobs, about half are expected to face negative consequences, while the other half are likely to experience increased productivity.

According to a report by AFP on the 14th (local time), the IMF’s analysis suggests that AI will significantly impact developed countries more than emerging or impoverished nations.

In an interview with AFP, Kristalina Georgieva, the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), cited a report from the IMF to outline the varied impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the global workforce. She explained that AI is projected to affect 60% of jobs in developed countries and some emerging nations. Georgieva also pointed out that the impact in emerging countries is somewhat less, at 40%, and it further decreases to 26% in developing countries. Globally, she underscored, approximately 40% of jobs are susceptible to the influence of AI.

The IMF report highlights that while half of the jobs influenced by AI may face negative consequences, the other half can expect increased productivity due to AI adoption. Georgieva stated, “Your job could disappear altogether,” She also emphasized that AI could lead to increased job productivity and potentially raise income levels, suggesting a positive aspect of the technological advancements in AI.

The IMF anticipates that the relatively minor impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on emerging and developing countries may curtail their opportunities to benefit from AI advancements. According to an IMF report, this disparity in AI’s influence could potentially deepen the digital divide and widen income disparities between nations. The report also draws attention to the particular vulnerability of older workers, who are more likely to be adversely affected by changes brought about by AI.

Georgieva emphasized that countries should implement retraining programs for vulnerable workers and establish comprehensive social safety nets to prevent the widening income gap resulting from AI adoption.

She emphasized the need for concerted efforts to assist impoverished countries in capitalizing on the opportunities presented by artificial intelligence (AI). She asserted the inevitability of AI’s integration into various sectors, stating, “We must accept it. It’s coming.” Furthermore, she acknowledged the apprehensions surrounding AI, describing it as “a bit scary,” but also highlighted its potential as “a tremendous opportunity for everyone,” underscoring the dual nature of AI as both a challenge and a boon.