AI Spurs 41% Of Companies Worldwide To Reduce Workforces By 2030

Artificial intelligence (AI) is set to revolutionize labor markets, with 41% of companies planning workforce reductions due to automation, according to a World Economic Forum (WEF) survey, Olesya Dmitracova reported for CNN.

Generative AI, capable of creating text, images, and other content, is driving many of these changes.

The WEF’s Future of Jobs Report surveyed hundreds of large companies globally. While 77% of firms plan to reskill and upskill workers between 2025-2030 to better integrate AI, the report marked a shift in tone compared to its 2023 edition, which had described technology, including AI, as a “net positive” for job creation.

"Advances in AI and renewable energy are reshaping the labor market," the report stated. The report also noted increased demand for technology and specialist roles but a decline for jobs like graphic designers and payroll clerks.

Generative AI, capable of creating text, images, and other content, is driving many of these changes.

According to the WEF, postal service clerks, executive secretaries, and payroll clerks are among roles expected to see the fastest declines. Graphic designers and legal secretaries, now appearing near the top of at-risk job roles, highlight generative AI's growing ability to perform knowledge work.

WEF Managing Director Saadia Zahidi emphasized that the transformative impact of generative AI would reshape industries and tasks across sectors.