The ILIA 2024 report identifies Chile, Brazil, and Uruguay as leaders in artificial intelligence in Latin America, recognized for their efforts in technological infrastructure, education, and governance. Presented by CENIA and ECLAC, Chile leads with 73.07 points, followed by Brazil and Uruguay. While these countries show promise, challenges in talent retention and equitable gender participation persist, necessitating urgent focus on investment and policy development in AI.
The Latin American Artificial Intelligence Index (ILIA) for 2024 has reaffirmed Chile, Brazil, and Uruguay as frontrunners in artificial intelligence within the region. These countries have been classified as “pioneers” due to their advancements in enabling factors, research, development, and governance in AI. Their notable achievements encompass substantial investments in technological infrastructure, talent cultivation, scientific output, and innovation capabilities.
The findings were disclosed on September 24, 2024, by Chile’s National Center for Artificial Intelligence (CENIA) alongside the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC). The ILIA 2024 study assessed the readiness of 19 regional countries to adopt AI technologies. Chile led the index with a score of 73.07, followed closely by Brazil at 69.30 and Uruguay at 64.98.
The report categorized the remaining countries as “adopters,” with Argentina, Colombia, and Mexico trailing at 55.77, 52.64, and 51.40, respectively. Despite a doubling of AI talent in the workforce over the past eight years, this region still lags behind the Global North’s capabilities at the start of the same timeframe.
Pioneering nations have not only progressed in implementing AI but have also tailored national strategies to enhance AI’s integration across various sectors. Their supportive environments further stimulate innovation and technology adoption aimed at social and economic growth.
Chile’s Minister of Science, Technology, Knowledge and Innovation, Aisén Etcheverry, emphasized the importance of the AI index in formulating effective policies. She noted the transformative potential of AI, especially for younger generations that express concerns about job displacement. The index serves as a framework for sustained development in AI technologies.
ECLAC’s Acting Deputy Executive Secretary, Javier Medina Vásquez, highlighted AI’s prospects as a catalyst for resolving critical issues in health, education, and environmental domains. However, he cautioned that without decisive actions in investment and regulation, AI could exacerbate existing inequalities in the region.
The EU-Latin America and the Caribbean Digital Alliance was also mentioned as vital to fostering a human-centric digital transformation, with AI as a priority theme. Upcoming discussions on these matters emphasize the cooperative relationship between the European and Latin American regions regarding technological advancement.
Rodrigo Durán, manager of CENIA, revealed that incorporating generative AI tools in vital Chilean occupations could significantly boost economic growth. Nonetheless, talent retention within Latin America remains a challenge, with certain countries managing to attract specialized personnel.
The range of scores across the AI index showed disparity in AI adoption and research capacities. Brazil and Mexico excelled in technological infrastructure and innovative output but face governance issues. In contrast, Chile demonstrates a comprehensive strategy for ethical AI implementation and regulation to ensure sustainable growth.
The ILIA 2024 highlights the necessity for the region to address gender equity in AI research and to prioritize resource allocation for AI-related initiatives. Continuous vigilance and proactive measures will be crucial as the landscape evolves over time.
The launch event for ILIA 2024 included key authorities from various institutions, showcasing successful AI applications by leading companies, demonstrating both regional promise and global engagement. The talk by an international AI expert underscored the significance of expanding the index to include more countries and indicators, enhancing its impact and relevance in guiding future advancements.
Chile, Brazil, and Uruguay are positioned as leaders in the advancement of artificial intelligence within Latin America according to the ILIA 2024 report. Their efforts in infrastructure, talent development, and governance have set them apart as pioneers. Nevertheless, the region must address challenges related to talent retention and gender equity in AI initiatives to sustain growth and innovation. Furthermore, collaboration with international partners remains essential for leveraging AI’s full potential across various sectors.
Original Source: www.cepal.org
