The Impact of AI on Employment in Peru
For the first time, a Peruvian State agency has officially identified jobs that may become obsolete in the near future due to automation and generative artificial intelligence (AI). This significant report, produced by the National Institute of Statistics and Informatics (INEI) and led by researcher Omar Manky Bonilla, provides a detailed analysis of how technological advancements are set to transform the employment landscape in Peru.
Study Overview
Titled “Double Technological Challenge: Analysis of Exposure to Traditional Automation and Generative Artificial Intelligence in Peruvian Employment, 2024,” the study draws upon data from the National Household Survey (Enaho) and extensive interviews with workers. It examines both traditional automation and AI’s growing influence on various occupations.
Jobs Threatened by Traditional Automation
The INEI report categorizes jobs at risk of being automated due to the repetitive or manual nature of their tasks. Notable occupations include:
- Cleaners and assistants in offices, hotels, and other establishments
- Kitchen helpers
- Control employees (supervisors) in supply chain operations
- Stevedores
These occupations face a high risk of displacement as robots and automated systems become more integrated into various sectors.
Vulnerable Professions in Technical and Administrative Fields
With the advancement of generative AI technologies, a new wave of occupations is identified as particularly vulnerable. Roles in technical and administrative fields that are at risk include:
- Administration technicians
- Accounting technicians
- Legal technicians
- Information technology instructors
- Programming specialists
This shift indicates that positions relying on routine analytical work are susceptible to being automated in the near future.
Jobs Less Likely to be Automated
Conversely, certain professions display low exposure to automation. Careers that require human interaction, creativity, or specialized manual skills remain relatively safe. These include:
- Primary and secondary school teachers
- Embroiderers
- Repairers
- Sewing assistants
- Beauty specialists
The Overall Labor Landscape
According to the report, 20% of Peruvian workers are at risk of being replaced by traditional automation, primarily those involved in manual and routine work. Further, 24.1% of the workforce is exposed to replacement by generative AI, particularly within the formal sector and technical-administrative roles.
Challenges and Future Outlook
Despite these alarming figures, the study highlights that labor transformation in Peru is progressing slower than in other countries. Over 70% of the workforce is informal, which hampers investment in technological advancement and digitalization. The dominance of microenterprises and a lack of process standardization allow many tasks to continue relying on manual labor, reducing the immediate impact of automation.
Conclusion
The research presented by INEI during its annual 2024 event marks a critical moment in discussions around the future of work in Peru. It provides vital insights into how automation and AI could reshape employment, stressing the importance of preparedness for potential job displacement. As the national labor market evolves, understanding these trends is essential for both workers and policymakers to navigate the changing landscape effectively.