Global Scans · Economy · Weekly Summary

DRIVER: The global economy still faces serious headwinds and political uncertainty potentially balanced by the enormous promise of technological advancements in many fields. Read on to get a solid handle on the opportunities and risks you and your organization may likely face and set your sails accordingly.

• [New] AI could contribute USD 15.7 trillion (CAD21.4 trillion) to the global economy, and while estimates vary, the potential gains for Africa are substantial. IDRC - International Development Research Centre
• [New] Productivity and Economic Transformation: AI is poised to reshape productivity and economic structures in Africa, with the potential to boost GDP by USD 2.9 trillion (CAD 4 trillion) by 2030, but it also risks deepening inequalities, displacing vulnerable workers and entrenching digital dependency. IDRC - International Development Research Centre
• [New] AI has the potential to inject USD 2.9 trillion (CAD 4 trillion) into the African economy by 2030, equating to a 3% annual increase in GDP. IDRC - International Development Research Centre
• [New] Generative AI will add between $2.6 and $4.4 trillion in annual value to the global economy, increasing the economic impact of AI as a whole by 15-40%. Main
• [New] China may stimulate its domestic economy, which could boost demand for Australian exports. 2025 Economic Outlook for Australian Businesses: Key T
• [New] NATO members imposing further import tax hikes on China, and its retaliation, could carry collateral damage for the US and European economies. Australian Broadcasting Corporation
• [New] The future of global trade in an AI-driven economy will ultimately depend on balance: between innovation and ethics, efficiency and sustainability, national interest and global collaboration. TradingView
• [New] India's GDP growth has rebounded strongly in Q1, and the reforms - budget tax cuts, rate cuts by the MPC and GST rationalization have the potential to sustain the growth momentum. Economic Times
• [New] By combining rigorous valuation analysis with a strategic focus on innovation-driven sectors, investors can position themselves to capitalize on the resurgence of big IPOs while managing the inherent risks of a fragmented global economy. Ainvest
• [New] The World Economic Forum published a report in January estimating that, as AI transforms the global workforce, 170 million new jobs will be created by 2030. Just Food
• [New] AI is reshaping the global economy, but its benefits and burdens are being distributed unevenly, threatening to deepen existing divides between and within countries. IDRC - International Development Research Centre
• [New] Despite persistent inflation, U.S. technology spending is projected to reach $2.7 trillion in 2025. Emerline
• [New] Data economy and extractive relationships: While the risk of extractive relationships is frequently noted, there is a lack of empirical research that systematically maps the AI data value chain as it relates to Africa. IDRC - International Development Research Centre
• [New] Supporting seamless cross-border trade will expand customer bases and attract investment, allowing Africa to chart its own economic course. Global Africa Business Initiative
• [New] Pork production for 2025 fell by 180 million pounds, as processing speeds are expected to trend lower through the end of the year, and dressed weights have declined as well. DTN Progressive Farmer
• [New] Beef production for 2025 declined by 100 million pounds, as both fed and non-fed slaughter speeds are expected to continue to decline through the year's end. DTN Progressive Farmer
• [New] E.S.T. AgTech, the next generation of a proven incubator that will further accelerate technical resources and funding for the global agtech startup community. AgWired
• [New] The United States will generate 24.93 million tons of PV waste between 2025 and 2050, with an economic value of USD 189 billion. OpsMatters
• [New] Though consumption is dropping, overall industry value rose to $543 billion in 2024 and is projected to climb to $806 billion by 2033, driven by premium pricing rather than volume. Zappi
• [New] Through 2025, securing generative AI will drive a more than 15% incremental spend on cybersecurity resources. UC Tech News
• [New] The journey to becoming a new member is not easy, because Indonesia must be able to take advantage of opportunities, overcome risks, and still face the dynamics of global politics and economics, which are full of uncertainty but offer new possibilities within the scope of BRICS. Valdai Club

Last updated: 16 September 2025