AI Boom Risks Widening Economic Divide Between Rich and Poor Nations

07 November 2026: Ayre Think Tank Study Reveals Artificial intelligence (AI) could significantly widen economic inequalities between developed and developing nations. The research identifies a potential US$360 billion disparity in economic benefits between Commonwealth countries well-prepared for AI adoption and those facing technological and infrastructure challenges.

The Ayre Index, unveiled at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua and Barbuda, examined AI readiness among approximately 732 million young people aged 15–29 across all 56 Commonwealth member countries.

According to the study, only 15 countries achieved the benchmark for youth AI readiness. These countries could collectively experience economic gains of approximately US$389.2 billion over ten years under the study’s middle-growth scenario, compared with just US$29.2 billion across the remaining 41 countries.

Singapore secured the highest ranking, followed by Malta, Australia, the United Kingdom and Canada. Malawi and Lesotho ranked lowest. Among the Commonwealth’s 21 African member countries, only Mauritius, South Africa and Nigeria achieved the required readiness benchmark.

The research highlights significant differences in digital infrastructure, technology accessibility, education and employment opportunities. In Togo, despite nearly universal 4G network coverage, fewer than half of young people reportedly use the internet. Meanwhile, electricity access in Malawi reaches only approximately 20% of the population.

Nigeria presents another challenge. Although nearly 90% of surveyed young people anticipate using AI for employment or education within a year, the country scored only 0.8 out of 10 for conventional digital capabilities.

Calvin Ayre, entrepreneur, philanthropist and founder of the think tank, emphasised that AI will fundamentally transform employment, business operations and wealth creation. He urged governments to equip younger generations with essential digital skills and economic opportunities.

The report also identifies employment challenges in technologically prepared countries. South Africa met the AI readiness benchmark despite youth unemployment reaching 46.3%.

Drawing on 1,128 research sources, the study highlights the urgent need for coordinated investment in digital education, affordable internet connectivity, reliable electricity, entrepreneurship and workforce development.

For developing economies, including those expanding industrial automation, digital manufacturing and AI-enabled production, these findings underline the importance of inclusive technology adoption.

The study concludes that technological access alone cannot guarantee economic progress. Effective education, practical skills, employment opportunities and supportive government policies will determine whether AI promotes inclusive growth or reinforces existing global economic inequalities.

https://calvinayre.com/for-progress-think-tank