Study: AI could boost Maldives GDP by $112mn

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) could boost the Maldives’ gross domestic product by USD 112 million after 10 years, according to a major international study of how well young people are prepared for the AI revolution.

The Ayre Index, a new study covering all 56 Commonwealth countries, was unveiled on Wednesday at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua and Barbuda.

Only 15 countries met its benchmark for youth AI readiness, with the Maldives ranking far below at 28th place with 44.9 points out of 100.

The study found that based on its moderate scenario, proper utilization of AI could boost the Maldives’ GDP by USD 112 million after 10 years.

The inaugural white paper by the think tank established by the Antiguan-Canadian philanthropist Calvin Ayre brought together 1,128 research sources to examine the opportunities facing approximately 732 million young people aged 15 to 29 across the Commonwealth.

Presenting the paper to the Commonwealth delegates, Ayre stressed that AI is going to transform how people work, do business and how wealth is created.

“What matters is giving young people the skills and the chance to get ahead – whether to start businesses, find jobs or build something for themselves,” he said.

He stressed that nobody can afford to be complacent right now.

"Some Commonwealth countries are ahead; others have catching up to do. Nobody can afford to be complacent. That's why we created this Index. It shows countries where they stand, what they're getting right and where they need to do better. Governments now have to decide what they're going to do about it,” he said.

The study highlights that access to technology does not automatically translate into economic success.

It says that skills, affordable connectivity, routes into employment and support for entrepreneurs will determine whether AI creates new businesses and better jobs – or reinforces existing economic divides.