Chile has topped the 2024 Latin American Artificial Intelligence Index (ILIA), securing 73.07 points, ahead of Brazil and Uruguay. The index evaluates AI preparedness across 19 countries in the region, noting that while AI talent in the workforce has doubled in eight years, challenges persist, particularly in gender equity and capacity building. The study serves to encourage strategic investment and policy development in AI.
On September 24, 2024, Chile’s National Center for Artificial Intelligence (CENIA) and the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) unveiled findings from the 2nd edition of the Latin American Artificial Intelligence Index (ILIA 2024). This comprehensive study assessed the preparedness of 19 Latin American nations in adopting artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, with Chile achieving the highest ranking at 73.07 points. Following Chile, Brazil scored 69.30 points and Uruguay attained 64.98 points. Argentina, Colombia, and Mexico emerged as adopters, showcasing a gradual integration of AI within their respective workforce. Despite a marked increase in AI talent concentration over the past eight years, Latin America lags behind the Global North in educational attainment and workforce training related to AI. The report highlighted that the leaders in AI implementation, namely Chile, Brazil, and Uruguay, are not only advancing AI technology but are also embedding these systems across various sectors of their economies. This strategy encourages innovation and the widespread application of AI. Minister Aisén Etcheverry of Chile remarked, “Having an index of this kind helps us move forward with sound policies and is critical for the success of these strategies,” emphasizing the need for forward-thinking policies in response to AI advancements. ECLAC’s Acting Deputy Executive Secretary, Javier Medina Vásquez, stressed that while AI presents opportunities for development, it also risks widening existing socioeconomic disparities if investment and infrastructure improvements are overlooked. The event further underscored the European Union’s commitment to digital transformation in Latin America, as expressed by Ambassador Claudia Gintersdorfer, who noted AI as central to the EU-LAC Digital Alliance. Moreover, Rodrigo Durán from CENIA revealed that incorporating generative AI could enhance economic growth significantly. Despite this progress, challenges remain, particularly around equitable gender participation in AI. The comprehensive study encompassed several dimensions, assigning varying scores based on technological infrastructure, specialized talent, and scientific productivity. Notably, it identified increasing trends in multidisciplinary AI publications, indicating a growing academic focus within the region. The findings underscored a pressing need for strategic investments in human capital, research, and regulatory frameworks to bolster AI adoption nationwide.
The Latin American Artificial Intelligence Index (ILIA) offers a critical overview of the state of artificial intelligence across the region by evaluating various nations based on their infrastructural and developmental readiness. The index identifies pioneers in AI implementation, setting benchmarks for other countries while revealing the overall growth trajectory in workforce talent and research capabilities. The release of ILIA 2024 is particularly significant as it aligns with global trends emphasizing the transformative power of AI within societal frameworks and economic structures. The data gathered not only reflects current standings but also highlights areas in need of intervention and improvement in order to maintain competitive viability in the global AI landscape.
In conclusion, the ILIA 2024 showcases significant advancements in AI capability within Latin America, notably in countries like Chile, Brazil, and Uruguay. These nations have established themselves as leaders through strategic investment in technology and talent development. However, the report also emphasizes ongoing challenges, particularly regarding equitable workforce participation and the need for sustained investment in AI infrastructure. Moving forward, targeted efforts must be enacted to harness AI’s potential while addressing the disparities that may arise within the region.
Original Source: www.cepal.org
