Google: "Generative AI could increase Belgium's GDP by 50 billion euros over next decade"
Generative artificial intelligence (AI) could increase Belgium's gross domestic product (GDP) by 45 to 50 billion euros over the next 10 years, an increase of 9 per cent. This is the conclusion of a study commissioned by technology company Google and carried out by Implement Consulting Group. The service sector could see the greatest economic benefit from AI.
In total, generative AI will play a role in 3.6 million jobs in Belgium, according to Google. "It is expected to help most jobs (64 per cent) by automating certain tasks. About 63 per cent of these workers tend to have higher education. In a smaller proportion of jobs (7 per cent), more than half of the tasks can be automated by generative AI," the tech giant said on Tuesday. "It is striking that 85 per cent of the economic potential of generative AI lies in the service sector."
By 2023, 30 per cent of Belgians will have used this technology at least once
Many Belgians and companies are already using generative AI. "By 2023, 30 per cent of Belgians will have used this technology at least once, and 14 per cent of Belgian companies have already integrated at least one AI technology into their operations," Google said. Generative AI can automate an estimated 20 to 30 per cent of current work
activities in Belgium, according to the company.
Training needed
Thierry Geerts, Google's country director for Belgium and Luxembourg, believes that the Belgian workforce will need to be trained to work with generative AI tools. "Of the Belgian workers who say AI will change all or part of their job, 30 per cent expect to have to retrain or take some kind of course as a result of AI within the next five years, which equates to around 700,000 workers in Belgium."
"We can see AI as a direct threat. Or as an enhanced intelligence that will help us leave behind repetitive tasks and focus on the real human added value: creativity, analysis and critical thinking," added prime minister Alexander De Croo. "In my opinion, AI can fully support the capabilities of our companies and SMEs in the coming years."
© Andre M. Chang/ZUMA Press Wire
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