Most countries in the Americas have adopted or are discussing broad strategies or regulations on artificial intelligence (AI). Cullen International’s latest research shows that AI policy has been a key issue for the region, with important decisions on the horizon.

The US’ recently published AI Action Plan outlines over 90 federal policy actions nominally designed to help the USA achieve global AI “dominance”. These actions are organised around three pillars: accelerating AI innovation; building American AI infrastructure; and leading international AI diplomacy and security.

Other countries in the region are also taking significant steps towards defining their AI policy goals and regulations. Canada consulted on the future direction of its AI strategy with a view to maintaining AI “leadership”.

The Colombian government introduced a broad AI bill, drawing on previous legislative proposals and inputs from academia, the private sector, and civil society.

A bill on AI is also under discussion in the Brazilian Congress. If approved, the bill would impose transparency and ethical obligations on AI developers, and require them to conduct risk-mitigating measures.

The strategies for fostering AI vary across the region. Some governments invest in AI research, workforce skills, and access to computing hardware. Argentina and Colombia are the only countries to offer tax incentives for AI developers.

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