Artificial intelligence (AI) is not a priority technology for most companies in the Caucasus and Central Asia over the next year—only 17% of organizations actively utilize AI in their operations. This is stated in the KPMG study on technological trends in the region, as reported by the correspondent of the business information center Kapital.kz.
29% of companies face challenges related to insufficient support from leadership and limited investments, which hinders the implementation of AI and reduces its impact on business processes. 44% of companies plan to use AI for automating routine tasks and enhancing productivity.
Interest in cloud technologies in the region continues to grow. However, despite positive dynamics, barriers remain that limit their widespread adoption. The main obstacles include a lack of qualified specialists, high integration costs, and the absence of a unified digital infrastructure. Nevertheless, many companies have already begun transitioning to cloud solutions, anticipating improved operational efficiency and reduced costs.
Attention to information security has also increased. However, many companies still view cybersecurity as a mandatory formality rather than a strategic priority for long-term business resilience. Unlike global leaders, where 72% of companies incorporate cybersecurity into decision-making processes for new IT projects at the earliest stages, in Central Asia and the Caucasus, only 6% of IT leaders integrate these issues into strategic planning.
"In the context of rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, intelligent automation, cloud, and quantum computing, it is critically important to be able to adapt to changes. Our research showed that, unlike international practices, approaches to technology investments in the Caucasus and Central Asia vary significantly from company to company," noted Konstantin Aushev, partner and head of the Technology Practice at KPMG Caucasus and Central Asia.
The study results indicate that the approaches to digital transformation in Central Asian and Caucasian countries differ from global trends. While digitalization is viewed as an integral part of business strategy worldwide, its implementation in the region often remains fragmented. IT leaders in the region note a lack of comprehensive strategies and emphasize the need for closer ties between business and technology.
Many companies have already recognized the potential of digital solutions and are actively developing internal IT competencies. It is expected that in the coming years, the region will demonstrate accelerated adoption of advanced technologies, particularly in data analytics, business process automation, and cloud solutions.
During the analysis, interviews were conducted with 70 IT leaders from eight key sectors: financial services, technology and telecom, retail and consumer goods, industrial manufacturing, healthcare and pharmaceuticals, the public sector, and energy. The KPMG study provides companies in the region with the opportunity to assess their digital maturity, adjust their technology development strategy, and identify key investment areas that will help strengthen their market positions.
It is noted that experts analyzed the development of the industry in Central Asian and Caucasian countries and compared it with the global landscape, examining key global and regional trends. Compared to global trends, the approaches of companies in the region to technology investments vary significantly.
Recall that during an extended government meeting, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev stated that building a self-sufficient digital ecosystem requires a solid foundation in the form of quality data and a reliable protection system. He instructed to accelerate the development of artificial intelligence in the country. Earlier, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev noted that AI is one of the key driving forces of modern progress and has the potential to radically change the economy.