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AI Era Accelerates Shift to Knowledge Economy
Rise of the Knowledge Economy and AI's Role
Entering the 21st century, the global economic order has shifted significantly from the industrial era's competition over resources, labor, and capital to one where knowledge, data, and technology are the primary drivers of growth. The rapid development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is accelerating this transformation, ushering in a new era of the knowledge economy. The knowledge economy refers to the economic value generated from the global capacity to create, share, and utilize knowledge.
According to the Asian Productivity Organization (APO)'s 2025 report, 'Artificial Intelligence and the Knowledge Economy: Transforming APO Economies,' AI is becoming one of the most critical drivers of the knowledge economy, fostering innovation, improving productivity, and changing how various economic sectors operate. Knowledge is no longer merely a product of education or scientific research but is considered an 'economic asset' that can be utilized and commercialized. Global market capitalization rankings show that most leading companies are technology firms or those based on data and software, whose value lies in intellectual property, technology platforms, and innovation capabilities.
Challenges and Strategies in the Knowledge Economy Era
If the internet is the foundation of the digital economy, AI is considered the core technology of the knowledge economy in this new era. AI not only helps automate repetitive tasks but also possesses the ability to analyze data, assist in decision-making, and generate new knowledge from vast information sources. The APO notes that AI is driving innovation across various fields, from manufacturing and finance to healthcare and education. Companies leverage AI to optimize production processes, reduce operational costs, and develop products that better meet market needs.
However, the development of the knowledge economy has also highlighted significant disparities between countries. Nations with strong technology ecosystems, skilled workforces, and excellent data infrastructure are rapidly leveraging the benefits of AI. In contrast, many developing countries are still struggling to build the foundational infrastructure for digital transformation. The shortage of skilled professionals in AI and digital technology is one of the biggest challenges, with global demand for technical experts, data scientists, and AI engineers rapidly increasing. Furthermore, the transition to a knowledge economy is altering labor market structures, with many repetitive and low-skill jobs facing automation, making lifelong learning an increasingly crucial skill.
*Source: Vietnam.vn (2026-03-22)*
