# AI Boosts Global Growth But Widens Economic Divide

> AI could boost global growth by 0.5% but risks widening gaps between rich and developing economies.
- Title: AI Boosts Global Growth But Widens Economic Divide | Shortify
- Summary: AI could boost global growth by 0.5% but risks widening gaps between rich and developing economies. AI adoption may increase global economic growth by up to…
- Keywords: global growth, imf, oecd, developing economies, productivity, semiconductors, workforce skills, business, money, news, Boosts, Global
- Source: Financialexpress — https://financialexpress.com/policy/economy/how-ai-could-boost-global-growth-and-widen-the-divide-between-rich-and-developing-economies/4367160
- Author: Ajay Joseph
- Published: 2026-10-22T13:31:19+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: ai, global growth, imf, oecd, developing economies, productivity, semiconductors, workforce skills, business, money, news
## AI's Global Growth Potential
The IMF estimates AI could increase annual global economic growth by up to 0.5% over the medium term.
## Uneven AI Adoption Risks
Gaps in electricity access, digital infrastructure and workforce skills could prevent developing economies from capitalising on ai.
## Productivity Gains Limited
The IMF warns that visible productivity benefits across the wider economy have been less pronounced than investment scale suggests.
## OECD's Productivity Estimate
The OECD estimates ai could add 0.4% to 1.2% to annual productivity growth across its member countries.
## AI Adoption Lagging
Businesses are making limited use of ai in core functions despite consumer adoption growth.
## Developing Economies at Risk
Reliable electricity, digital connectivity and skilled workers are essential for developing economies to integrate ai effectively.
## Productivity Divide Threatens
Businesses with capital and advanced technology could use ai to reduce costs while smaller firms lag behind.
## AI Investment Returns Questioned
Higher borrowing costs and limited productivity gains raise questions about ai investment returns.
## Job Market Impact
Around 40% of jobs worldwide could be exposed to ai, with entry-level workers at particular risk.
## Key takeaway

AI adoption may increase global economic growth by up to 0.5% but could leave developing economies behind due to uneven infrastructure and skills.