Research from Google shows that generative AI can increase Belgium’s GDP by up to 50 billion euros; widespread acceptance and retraining required.
Generative AI has the potential to increase Belgium’s gross domestic product (GDP) by 45 to 50 billion euros over the next decade. This emerges from a study by the Implement Consulting Group, which was carried out on behalf of Google. We think this is a bit ambiguous because Google obviously wants generative AI to boom. With Gemini it has every interest. Therefore, the following results should be viewed with caution. The toilet duck content is widespread.
A significant number of Belgian workers (76 percent) believe that this technology will improve their productivity. In addition, an estimated 3.2 million jobs, or 64 percent of the labor market, could function with generative AI. The service sector would particularly benefit from this.
The adoption of AI in Belgium varies greatly between large companies and SMEs. While almost half (48%) of large companies have adopted AI, this percentage is significantly lower for SMEs (13%). Nevertheless, Belgium is far ahead compared to the EU in terms of AI adoption.
Importance of skills and regulations
The positive impact of generative AI also extends to productivity, potentially playing a role in 3.6 million jobs in Belgium. However, to fully exploit this technology, investment in skills and innovation as well as the development of a supportive regulatory framework are essential. The latter is underlined by the recent adoption of the AI law during the Belgian EU Presidency, which aims to promote innovative companies.
Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo emphasizes the need to see AI as an opportunity to focus on human values such as creativity and analytical skills. State Secretary for Digitalization Mathieu Michel points to the impact of AI on society and the economy and the role it can play in addressing societal challenges such as climate change and healthcare.
Finally, Thierry Geerts, country director of Google Belgium and Luxembourg, notes that Belgium can increase its wealth and GDP through the active use of generative AI, comparable to top countries such as Finland and Denmark. This requires a focus on upskilling, promoting innovation and creating an enabling regulatory framework.