Artificial intelligence is transforming the global economy, but its benefits are not being shared evenly. Instead of lifting all regions and populations equally, AI is concentrating wealth and opportunity in areas that already have technological infrastructure, capital, and highly skilled workers. Developed nations and wealthy tech hubs are rapidly advancing their AI capabilities, while many developing countries struggle to build the necessary digital foundations. This uneven adoption contributes to a widening economic divide between the global “AI haves” and “AI have-nots.”
A major factor driving this gap is access to data and computing resources, both of which are essential for training and deploying modern AI systems. Organizations in advanced economies enjoy abundant data, powerful cloud infrastructures, and substantial investment, giving them a significant head start. By contrast, firms and institutions in lower-income countries often lack the funding, connectivity, and technical talent to compete. As a result, the economic gains from AI — such as productivity improvements and new market opportunities — tend to flow toward wealthier regions.
The concentration of AI-generated value also shapes labor markets, where demand for high-skill, high-pay roles grows while demand for routine jobs declines. Workers in regions with advanced education systems and retraining programs are more likely to benefit from this shift. Meanwhile, those without access to quality education and lifelong learning opportunities may face job displacement and stagnant wages. This dynamic reinforces existing inequalities, making it harder for disadvantaged communities to close the wealth gap.
Addressing these disparities requires intentional policy intervention, investment in digital infrastructure, and expanded access to education and training. Governments, international organizations, and industry stakeholders must collaborate to ensure that AI technologies are developed and deployed in ways that promote inclusive growth. Without strategic action, the benefits of AI risk becoming increasingly concentrated, exacerbating global inequities rather than contributing to shared prosperity.
