French businesses are indeed slow to adopt artificial intelligence (AI) compared to their global counterparts. According to a recent study, only 35% of French employers have implemented or plan to implement AI solutions, citing compatibility, skills, and financial constraints as major barriers.
The French government has committed to allocating €500 million to AI training and development by 2030, aiming to establish France as the AI hub of Europe. However, French businesses seem to be struggling with the associated costs, planning to spend only $23.7 million on AI this year, which is under half the global average.
Despite these challenges, France has seen significant growth in AI investment, with an 82% increase in 2024, reaching €1.9 billion. The country's AI ecosystem has also attracted big tech companies like Amazon and Microsoft, and has given rise to homegrown startups like Mistral.
To overcome the inhibitors and unlock the potential of AI, French businesses are advised to prioritize strategic actions, such as seeking government grants and subsidies, investing in employee training and upskilling, and leveraging the country's advantageous regulatory environment.
