IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva stated that artificial intelligence could raise global GDP growth by nearly 1 percent annually. Speaking at the India AI Impact Summit 2026, she emphasized AI’s potential to boost productivity but cautioned about labor market disruptions, urging policymakers to balance innovation with inclusivity and resilience.
Artificial intelligence is emerging as a transformative force in the global economy, according to IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva. Addressing the India AI Impact Summit in New Delhi on February 19, 2026, she highlighted that AI could lift worldwide GDP growth by up to 0.8–1 percent annually, marking a significant upside potential for productivity.
Key Highlights
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IMF estimates AI could raise global GDP growth by nearly 1 percent annually
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AI adoption compared to the industrial revolution in terms of scale and speed of transformation
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Labor market disruption expected, with up to 60 percent of jobs impacted in advanced economies
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Emerging markets and low-income countries also face structural shifts, requiring proactive policy frameworks
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Policymakers urged to maximize AI’s benefits while ensuring inclusivity and resilience
Georgieva likened AI’s rise to the building of railways, noting that the pace of change will be faster and more disruptive. While AI offers remarkable opportunities to enhance productivity and innovation, she cautioned that it could reshape labor markets at an unprecedented scale. The IMF estimates that AI could affect 40 percent of jobs in emerging markets and 26 percent in low-income countries.
She stressed the importance of preparing for these shifts through strong social safety nets, reskilling programs, and inclusive policies. By balancing innovation with protection, countries can harness AI’s potential while mitigating risks to workers and vulnerable communities.
Sources: IMF, Reuters, Economic Times