The International Monetary Fund (IMF) says rapid adoption of artificial intelligence and digital technologies worldwide is reshaping labour markets and driving an urgent need for new skills among workers, according to a recent blog post by IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva that draws on fresh analysis of online job vacancies.
In the commentary, Georgieva highlighted findings from IMF research that examined millions of online job postings across both advanced and emerging economies. The analysis shows a marked increase in the proportion of job listings that list new technology-related skills as job requirements, signaling a shift in employer expectations as AI tools become embedded in business processes.
The IMF reported that about one in 10 job postings in advanced economies now require at least one new digital or AI-related skill, while in emerging market economies the figure stands at approximately one in 20. This trend reflects broader labour market transformations, where roles in data analysis, automation, machine learning, cloud computing and digital collaboration tools are gaining prominence.
Georgieva stressed that the growing need for tech-driven competencies reinforces the importance of continuous learning, training and reskilling initiatives to help workers remain employable. “As technology reshapes work, adaptability and lifelong learning will be key determinants of who thrives in the evolving economy,” she wrote.
The IMF’s findings align with broader global labour data showing that employers are increasingly seeking skills related to digital literacy, problem-solving, and advanced technical proficiency. In many sectors, traditional roles are being redefined to include responsibilities tied to AI augmentation, automation oversight and digital project management.
Policymakers and economists have pointed to expanding public-private partnerships in education and workforce development as critical responses to these trends. Countries with effective retraining programs are seen as better positioned to mitigate displacement risks associated with AI and to harness productivity gains from technology adoption.
The IMF has previously warned that without proactive policy action on skills training and labour market support, technological disruption could exacerbate inequalities and leave vulnerable workers behind. Strengthening social safety nets, improving access to quality education and subsidising reskilling programs have all been highlighted as potential policy areas.
As AI continues to influence sectors from manufacturing and finance to healthcare and services, the IMF’s analysis underscores that skill adaptability, not just formal education, is increasingly a core economic asset for workers globally.
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