Preparing to seize AI opportunities.

 


Developing countries need to prepare themselves for a world that is rapidly being reshaped by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other frontier technologies. A useful measure in assessing national preparedness to use, adopt and adapt frontier technologies is the UNCTAD frontier technologies readiness index. Developed countries lead the ranking, but some developing countries, notably Singapore, China, and India, hold prominent positions. Moreover, some countries perform better than their levels of income may suggest, demonstrating strong potential to seize opportunities offered by frontier technologies and boost economic development. This section further examines the key factors in AI adoption and development, highlighting the urgent need for improved infrastructure, data and skills in developing countries. Assessing readiness and identifying relative strengths and weaknesses in AI can guide the development of strategic plans and catch-up pathways

Key policy takeaways

Governments should strategically position themselves to seize the opportunities offered by AI. This involves assessing national AI capacities across the three leverage points of infrastructure, data and skills; and identifying gaps to pinpoint areas of action. Different catch-up trajectories can steer the transition from current technological and productive capacities towards desired targets. 

Evaluating AI opportunities and challenges, through technology assessment and foresight exercises, helps identify actions to strengthen the innovation system. UNCTAD assists developing countries in technology assessment, and its Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Policy Review Programme supports the development of STI policies. 

A successful structural transformation requires cooperation among public authorities and ministries, such as those for STI, industry and education. Stakeholder engagement is crucial to identify AI solutions for sustainable development and to formulate STI plans that align with national objectives.




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