Closing the Gap: How Countries Can Speed Up Adoption of Frontier AI

A new report highlights a worrying trend in global AI development: a large gap in the adoption of frontier AI technologies between countries. Some governments are actively using AI to raise productivity and drive innovation, while others lag far behind and risk missing key economic and social benefits. This "capability overhang", where AI's potential exists but its realization falters, is becoming a serious challenge for global competitiveness.

The causes of the gap are varied. They include differences in the maturity of digital infrastructure, the availability of skilled workers, the volume of investment in research and development, and the regulatory frameworks governing AI use. Countries with developed digital economies generally adapt to new technologies faster and are better prepared to deploy them across industries. Even in those countries, however, there are sectors where AI adoption is slower than expected.

The report proposes several concrete initiatives to close the gap. First, invest in digital infrastructure, including wider access to high-speed internet and the construction of data centers. Second, step up the training of skilled AI specialists, including developing educational programs and supporting scientific research. Third, create a favorable regulatory environment that encourages innovation and ensures safe and ethical use of AI.

The report pays particular attention to the need for international cooperation on AI. Sharing experience and best practices between countries can significantly speed up AI adoption and help close the technology gap. It is also important to ensure fair access to AI technologies for all countries, regardless of their level of development.

The consequences of this adoption gap may be quite serious. Countries that fail to use AI effectively risk slower economic growth, weaker competitiveness and greater social inequality. By contrast, countries that adopt AI successfully will gain significant competitive advantages and can offer their citizens a higher standard of living.

In conclusion, the report stresses that overcoming the AI capability overhang is a critical task for sustainable and inclusive growth of the global economy. That requires coordinated efforts by governments, business and the scientific community to create an environment that favors AI adoption and development.