The ILIA 2024 report identifies Chile, Brazil, and Uruguay as the top leaders in AI within Latin America. These nations excel in technology infrastructure, talent development, and governance. The study, which evaluated 19 countries, noted the region’s progress in AI talent but highlighted ongoing challenges, especially regarding socioeconomic disparities and needs for gender equity. Overall, the report calls for continued investment and strategic focus on AI to maximize regional development opportunities.
The Latin American Artificial Intelligence Index (ILIA) 2024 report confirms Chile, Brazil, and Uruguay as frontrunners in the region’s AI landscape. These three nations are classified as “pioneers” based on their performance across crucial metrics such as enabling factors, research, development and adoption, and governance. Their notable advancements in technology infrastructure, talent development, and innovation capacity set them apart among the 19 countries assessed.
On September 24, 2024, Chile’s National Center for Artificial Intelligence (CENIA) and the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) announced the results, with Chile securing the highest score of 73.07 points, followed by Brazil at 69.30 points and Uruguay at 64.98 points. The index included nations classified as “adopters,” such as Argentina (55.77), Colombia (52.64), and Mexico (51.40).
The study highlights that, despite a doubling of AI talent concentration in the workforce over the past eight years, no country in the region has yet matched the levels of the Global North. The leading countries are not only implementing AI technologies but also aligning their national strategies for the broader application of AI across sectors.
Chile’s Minister of Science, Technology, Knowledge and Innovation, Aisén Etcheverry, remarked on the importance of tools like ILIA for informed policymaking. She emphasized the need to prepare for digital transformations, noting that AI will profoundly impact the future, especially for youth facing uncertainties about job displacement.
Javier Medina Vásquez from ECLAC discussed AI’s potential to drive development in Latin America, aiding in areas like health, education, and environmental challenges while also warning about risks associated with socioeconomic disparities. He stressed the urgency of investing in AI infrastructure and education to leverage these opportunities effectively.
The European Union’s Ambassador to Chile, Claudia Gintersdorfer, stated the significance of the EU-LAC Digital Alliance, emphasizing AI as a priority for digital cooperation. She highlighted the ongoing dialogue aimed at fostering a human-centric approach to AI technologies.
CENIA manager Rodrigo Durán reported that incorporating generative AI could enhance Chile’s economic growth notably. He pointed out the regional talent retention issues and acknowledged that while some countries attract talent, many still drain skilled professionals.
The ILIA report reveals advancements in research, development, and adoption of AI, with Brazil, Chile, and Uruguay leading in various sub-indices. However, countries with low investment in AI continue to face considerable challenges.
The report also details that Chile tops the region in scientific publications on AI, signaling a robust research environment. Infrastructure scores reveal Uruguay, Chile, and Costa Rica as leaders, while data availability is highest in Brazil and Uruguay. Countries like Mexico and Brazil excel in patenting and high-tech employment.
Despite these achievements, challenges remain, particularly regarding gender equity in AI research and development. The need for urgent gubernatorial actions to sustain growth and support equitable opportunity in AI development is evident.
The launch event of ILIA 2024 included notable attendees and showcased successful AI applications from leading organizations like Google, Amazon Web Services, and Microsoft, marking significant steps in regional connectivity and educational support.
In comparative findings, Chile remains the regional AI leader due to its high investment in technology and extensive training programs. Both Uruguay and Brazil continue to excel in infrastructure and talent but face distinct governance challenges.
As a conclusion, while Chile, Brazil, and Uruguay lead in AI development, all countries in the region must address ongoing challenges, particularly in equity and resource allocation for sustainable AI advancement.
In conclusion, Chile, Brazil, and Uruguay demonstrate significant advancements in AI, establishing themselves as leaders in the Latin American landscape. Their proactive approach to technology, talent development, and policy governance positions them well for future challenges. However, issues of gender equity and resource allocation require immediate attention to ensure inclusive growth throughout the region, fostering a sustainable AI environment that benefits all sectors of society.
Original Source: www.cepal.org
