A new report by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has rated the United States as the top country in AI preparedness, followed closely by the Netherlands, Finland, and Estonia. The report measures preparedness through digital infrastructure, human capital, labor market policies, innovation, economic integration, and regulation.
The United States and the Netherlands both achieved a .77 score on the AI preparedness index, showcasing their robust readiness to implement AI technologies. Finland and Estonia followed closely with a score of .76. Other top-rated nations included New Zealand, Germany, and Sweden, each scoring .75, while Australia, Japan, and Israel each scored .73.
Surprisingly, Taiwan, received a lower rating than anticipated rating of .67. Considering Taiwan is known for its significant role in semiconductor production, this score comes as a surprise to many. China, Russia, and Iran were rated lower, with scores of .64, .56, and .38, respectively. Venezuela received one of the lowest ratings at .27.
India, an emerging industrial powerhouse, was rated .49. India has positioned itself to be the fifth largest economy, pushing the U.K. out of its previous position.
South Sudan, Afghanistan, the Central African Republic (CAR), and Somalia were at the bottom of the list, with ratings ranging from .11 to .2.
The IMF highlighted the need for countries to address inequality that AI might exacerbate, urging policymakers to invest in digital infrastructure and worker training. In its report, the IMF wrote, “In advanced economies, for example, some 30% of jobs could benefit from AI integration,” the IMF explained. “Workers who can harness the technology may see pay gains or greater productivity, while those who can’t, may fall behind.”
The report suggested that advanced economies expand social safety nets and strengthen regulations to build trust in AI. For emerging markets and developing economies, the focus should be on laying a strong foundation for AI through digital infrastructure investments.
