New WEF Report: A Path To Inclusive Economic Growth Through AI

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

January 22, 2025

The World Economic Forum (WEF) has released a new report that outlines how artificial intelligence (AI) can be leveraged to foster inclusive economic growth and societal progress. While AI holds immense potential to transform economies and societies, ensuring that its benefits are shared equitably remains a global challenge. The report offers practical strategies for leaders to address equity concerns, tailor AI solutions to local needs, and drive long-term, sustainable growth for all.

Nine Strategic Objectives

The report, titled Blueprint for Intelligent Economies, was developed in collaboration with KPMG. It outlines nine key strategic objectives that support every phase of the AI journey: innovation, development, deployment, and adoption at national, regional, and global levels. As part of the WEF’s AI Competitiveness through Regional Collaboration Initiative, the report tackles disparities in access to AI, infrastructure, advanced computing, and skills. It provides actionable insights and showcases successful case studies to help governments and other stakeholders at all AI maturity levels build more inclusive and resilient AI ecosystems worldwide.

Follow THE FUTURE on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and Telegram

AI Strategy For Inclusive Growth

The report emphasizes the importance of designing national and regional AI strategies that engage all stakeholders, including governments, businesses, entrepreneurs, civil society, and users. These strategies, backed by high-level leadership, should be developed in close collaboration with local communities. This approach is critical to addressing issues such as responsible governance, data privacy, and the local impact of AI policies on innovation and investment.

“The significant potential of AI remains largely untapped in many regions worldwide. Establishing an inclusive and competitive AI ecosystem will become a crucial priority for all nations,” said Solly Malatsi, Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies of South Africa. “Collaboration among multiple stakeholders at the national, regional, and global levels will be essential in fostering growth and prosperity through AI for everyone,” he added.

Tailored Frameworks And Collaboration

The report draws on global expertise and provides frameworks tailored to nations at various stages of AI development. While every region faces its unique challenges, the blueprint stresses the importance of adapting successful solutions from other regions. For example, regional frameworks for sharing AI infrastructure and energy resources can help overcome national resource limitations. Additionally, centralized databanks can create inclusive local datasets that reflect the diverse needs of communities. Public-private subsidies can widen access to affordable AI-ready devices, allowing local innovators to adopt AI technologies and scale their operations.

“All nations have a unique opportunity to advance their economic and societal progress through AI,” said Hatem Dowidar, CEO of E&. “This requires a collaborative approach of intentional leadership from governments, supported by active engagement with all stakeholders at every stage of the AI journey. Regional and global collaborations remain essential to address shared challenges and opportunities, ensuring equitable access to key AI capabilities and responsibly maximizing its transformative potential for lasting value for all,” he concluded.

The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties

Cyprus Government Fortifies Economic Resilience Amid Global Uncertainty

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

December 12, 2025

Government Commitment to Stability and Growth

Cyprus continues to build a strong and resilient economic foundation to support business planning and investment, as emphasized by Deputy Minister to the President Irene Piki. Representing President Nikos Christodoulides at the 12th Keve Business Leader Awards, Piki underscored that in today’s volatile global landscape, a consistent and reliable economy remains the cornerstone for long‐term strategic planning and confidence-building among businesses.

Strengthening Competitive Edge and Attracting Investment

Piki lauded the role of the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Keve) for its dedication to promoting Cyprus as an attractive investment destination and for supporting the expansion of local businesses. Reflecting on President Christodoulides’s recent address at Keve’s annual general assembly, she outlined the government’s vision for a more competitive Cyprus, which includes expanding market access, improving financing channels, and implementing a streamlined, business-friendly regulatory framework—all pivotal as Cyprus prepares for its EU Council presidency.

Economic Indicators Reflecting Confidence

Despite global uncertainties, Piki highlighted that the Cypriot economy continues to demonstrate resilience: gross domestic product grew by 3.4% in 2024, and forecasts indicate nearly 4% growth in 2025. With inflation remaining among the lowest in the European Union and unemployment dropping below 5%, these indicators affirm steady economic progress. Furthermore, positive ratings from international credit agencies, which have placed Cyprus in the A category with upbeat outlooks, underscore the success of prudent economic policies.

Fiscal Discipline and Strategic Investments

The government’s upcoming 2026 budget, which reinforces fiscal stability with a surplus balance and targets a decline in public debt to 50.9% of GDP, opens the door for strategic policy interventions. Piki noted that investments in energy, digital infrastructure, technology, and green growth are key priorities. Enhanced by the nearing completion of Recovery and Resilience Plan projects, Cyprus is now setting the stage for the next seven-year EU funding framework, ensuring a robust platform for sustained growth with active collaboration from the business community.

Regulatory Reforms and Market Liberalization

Central to the government’s agenda is the imminent tax reform, expected to be finalized on December 22 and implemented on January 1, 2026. This reform is designed to bolster business liquidity and attract new investments. The establishment of the National Enterprise Development Organisation further complements these efforts by offering financing tools and advisory services for small and medium-sized enterprises. Complementing these initiatives, the Cyprus Equity Fund is actively investing in innovative companies, while the Ministry of Energy grant schemes are projected to mobilize €360 million by 2027 to boost competitiveness.

Accelerating Digital Transformation and Energy Reforms

In its pursuit of a modernized business environment, the government is set to introduce a Business Service Centre in central Nicosia in 2025, consolidating licensing procedures to significantly reduce bureaucratic delays. In tandem, the impending launch of a competitive electricity market in October 2025 will empower companies to select their energy suppliers, fostering market competition and fair pricing.

Nurturing Human Capital

Recognizing the importance of talent in driving economic progress, the government is intensifying efforts to attract skilled professionals back to Cyprus. The Minds in Cyprus initiative, a collaboration with Keve and Invest Cyprus, seeks to reverse the talent drain by engaging Cypriots abroad through a series of events scheduled in the United States, United Kingdom, and Greece during 2026.

Commitment to Sustainable Growth

Concluding her address, Deputy Minister Piki congratulated the award recipients for their innovation and resilience, asserting that their achievements are a testament to the dynamism of the Cypriot business community. The government remains steadfast in its commitment to implementing reforms that support a stable, competitive, and sustainable economic future for Cyprus.

Breaking news