In more detail

As convenor of the Digital Forum of Small States, Singapore gathered information from other small states on common challenges in adopting and harnessing the potential of AI. These include availability of resources and funding, access to data and AI talent, and developing AI governance policies and frameworks.

As a comprehensive guide designed to help small states navigate the complexities of AI development and implementation, the Playbook includes the following key points:

• Laying key building blocks: The Playbook emphasizes the importance of building a strong foundation for AI through investment in human resources and infrastructure. It highlights the need for small states to develop a competent workforce capable of developing and deploying AI systems. This includes collaborating with local universities to create specialized AI curricula and upskilling the existing workforce through on-the-job training.
• Driving AI development and use: The Playbook outlines strategies for prioritizing AI development in key sectors such as agriculture, healthcare and government services. It provides examples of how small states like Mauritius and Rwanda have successfully implemented AI solutions to address specific challenges in these sectors. For instance, Mauritius has adopted AI-driven precision farming techniques to enhance agricultural productivity, while Rwanda has leveraged AI in healthcare to improve disease surveillance and response.
• Fostering a trusted environment: The Playbook emphasizes the importance of building a trusted AI environment by addressing both inherent and external risks associated with AI systems. It also highlights the need for small states to leverage existing regulations and build digital literacy among their populations to mitigate AI-related risks.

Key takeaways

• Global collaboration: By sharing best practices and addressing common challenges, the Playbook shows how small states can collectively harness the potential of AI to drive economic growth and social development.
• Strategic investment: The Playbook demonstrates that small states must strategically invest in human resources and infrastructure to build a robust AI ecosystem.
• Sector-specific AI solutions: By focusing on AI development in key priority areas such as agriculture, healthcare and government services, the Playbook showcases how small states can maximize the benefits of AI while addressing specific challenges unique to their contexts.
• Building trust: The Playbook highlights how small states should adopt holistic frameworks for AI governance, use practical testing tools, and build digital literacy among their populations to mitigate risks and ensure the safe and reliable use of AI.
• Inclusive development: The Playbook emphasizes the importance of inclusive development, ensuring that AI benefits all segments of society. By addressing the digital divide and promoting digital literacy, small states can create a more equitable and inclusive AI-driven future.

By providing a comprehensive guide to AI development, governance and implementation, the Playbook empowers small states to navigate the complexities of AI and drive inclusive and sustainable development.

At the same time, the fact that the Playbook represents another "best practices" set of guidelines is consistent with the Singapore government's pragmatic pro-business stance in the AI space.

As the digital landscape continues to evolve, it is crucial for small states to remain agile in their stances regarding AI use and employment, stay informed about new regulations in other countries, and continuously update their best practices to maximize the benefits of AI while mitigating its risks.

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For further information and to discuss what this development might mean for you, please get in touch with your usual Baker McKenzie contact.

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