The rise of generative artificial intelligence (AI), particularly large language models (LLMs), is reshaping workforce dynamics globally, with significant implications for countries like Argentina. As businesses seek to automate processes and enhance productivity, AI presents both challenges and opportunities that could lead to higher average wages.
Experts agree that AI is ushering in a new era of productivity and efficiency. Rather than posing a threat, generative AI is seen as an ally that can enhance various industries, creating unprecedented possibilities and redefining work methodologies. While some jobs may be altered, the true impact of this technological revolution will be the emergence of new roles in emerging sectors and improved performance in key areas such as healthcare, finance, and education.
Dante Sica, a founding partner of the consulting firm Abeceb and former Minister of Production and Labor, offers a positive outlook on technological changes: 'AI will revolutionize all production processes, affecting primarily administrative and repetitive tasks. However, as has happened in other historical moments, while some jobs will disappear, others will emerge.'
Sica emphasizes the need for Argentina to adapt to the 21st-century agenda, which involves transforming the educational system and increasing labor market flexibility. He highlights the importance of adopting policies that encourage investment in technology and human capital to fully harness the benefits of AI in terms of productivity and growth.
José Vargas, an economist and director of Evaluecon, notes that AI affects jobs both positively and negatively. 'Most developed countries have seen productivity levels rise by up to 60% through AI implementation. However, it also negatively impacts employment levels and wages in certain sectors,' he explains.
While AI improves productivity for workers who can leverage it, those whose jobs are entirely replaced may face lower wages or unemployment, necessitating retraining. Vargas points out that a reconfiguration of the labor market is underway, with technology-related roles expected to grow significantly, while others will depend on adaptability to change.
Microsoft's CEO, Satya Nadella, advocates for AI in the workplace, stating that it helps individuals work more efficiently. Microsoft has heavily invested in AI technology, notably in OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT. Nadella asserts that familiarizing oneself with AI now will prepare workers for more complex tasks in the future.
However, concerns remain regarding the viability of certain professional services due to AI integration, which could reshape how these services are delivered. From medical diagnostics to financial reporting, many professions will need to adapt to a new reality driven by AI.
Adriana Noreña, Google’s Vice President for Latin America, also acknowledges that while some jobs will be replaced, new opportunities will arise in areas requiring higher value-added skills. 'We will use human intelligence for more valuable tasks, while AI handles functions that would take us more time,' she explains.
As Argentina faces a dual challenge—achieving economic stability and transforming its educational system—Sica stresses the importance of aligning educational curricula with labor market needs. He warns against training individuals for jobs that may disappear, advocating instead for equipping them with skills to thrive in a changing work environment.
The AI revolution is an unstoppable process reshaping the Argentine labor market. However, with an educational system yet to fully align with these new realities, significant work lies ahead.
Notably, the impact of AI on employment is heterogeneous; not all occupations will be affected equally. While a significant portion of private employment is exposed to generative AI, the level of impact varies based on task type and job qualification. Higher-skilled positions face greater exposure, with over 90% of employment in executive and scientific roles at risk of being replaced or assisted by AI. Conversely, only 6% of unskilled jobs face significant exposure.
Furthermore, the financial and educational sectors are predicted to experience the highest levels of exposure to AI, with over 90% of registered employment in roles that could be modified by this technology. Meanwhile, sectors reliant on physical labor, such as construction and agriculture, show considerably lower exposure levels.
In conclusion, while the AI landscape presents challenges, it also opens up new avenues for job creation and productivity enhancement, necessitating a proactive approach from both the government and the education system to fully realize its potential.