Artificial intelligence is also affecting the informal sector, a very critical part of emerging economies, at a deep level. The impact which AI is likely to have on these informal jobs is considered in the paper and tries to underline the challenges and opportunities brought about by AI. On one hand, AI allows automatization of routine tasks, optimization of resource management, and productivity enhancement for informal workers such as small traders and artisans. For example, AI-based applications can be used in inventory management or agricultural data analysis to open up new markets. On the negative side, major risks are created by AI-powered automation: job losses, predominantly of easily automatizable jobs; increasing precariousness of informal workers normally deprived of social protection; and deepening inequalities between those who can adapt to new technologies and those who are excluded. The article notes that, if AI is to deliver great benefits and not harmful effects, then proactive public policy will be required, including training and digital inclusion programs.

错误:搜索内容不能为空,请输入英文关键词
错误:关键词超出字数限制,请精简
高级检索

Impact of Artificial Intelligence on the Informal Sector in Emerging Economies

  • Imad El Ghmari,
  • Omar El Ghmari

摘要

Artificial intelligence is also affecting the informal sector, a very critical part of emerging economies, at a deep level. The impact which AI is likely to have on these informal jobs is considered in the paper and tries to underline the challenges and opportunities brought about by AI. On one hand, AI allows automatization of routine tasks, optimization of resource management, and productivity enhancement for informal workers such as small traders and artisans. For example, AI-based applications can be used in inventory management or agricultural data analysis to open up new markets. On the negative side, major risks are created by AI-powered automation: job losses, predominantly of easily automatizable jobs; increasing precariousness of informal workers normally deprived of social protection; and deepening inequalities between those who can adapt to new technologies and those who are excluded. The article notes that, if AI is to deliver great benefits and not harmful effects, then proactive public policy will be required, including training and digital inclusion programs.