Belgian companies use more AI than other European countries
Companies in Belgium are working more with artificial intelligence (AI) than other companies in Europe, according to a recent overview by the Federal Public Service (FPS) Economy. However, challenges such as rolling out fibre optics and 5G technology remain significant hurdles.
In 2023, 12.5 per cent of Belgian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) reported using at least one AI-based technology, marking a 3.2 percentage-point increase since 2021. Among large companies, AI adoption is even more pronounced, with 47.9 per cent utilising such technologies. “The larger the company, the more it invests in digital technology,” noted the FPS Economy.
Belgium’s AI adoption rates surpass the European average, where 7.4 per cent of SMEs and 30.4 per cent of large companies have integrated AI into their operations.
However, barriers to AI use persist. The FPS Economy highlighted a lack of in-house expertise as the most significant obstacle. Additional challenges include high costs, compatibility issues with existing systems and the availability and quality of necessary data.
Despite advancements in AI, Belgium lags behind neighbouring countries in rolling out 5G and fibre optic networks. “Nevertheless, the outlook is positive. It is expected that half of all homes will be connected to fibre optics by the end of 2025,” the report states.
© PHOTO KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV / AFP
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