Generative artificial intelligence continues to transform the global economy, and Southeast Asian countries are no exception. According to my analysis of International Labour Organization (ILO) data, nearly 80 million people — or 22.9% of all employed in the ASEAN region — work in occupations where the impact of AI is assessed as more than minimal. However, contrary to dire predictions, mass displacement of workers has not yet been observed.
It is important to emphasize: "exposure" to AI does not automatically mean job loss. This indicator reflects the extent to which specific tasks within an occupation can be automated or altered using generative models. The estimates are based on detailed labor market surveys, including interpolation and regression calculations, providing an objective picture.
Key figures: who is at risk?
Only 3.3% of workers in the region (about 11.7 million people) are in occupations with the highest level of AI exposure. Meanwhile, 67% of employed individuals have not yet experienced any impact from the technology. The highest-risk group includes financial analysts, web developers, brokers, data entry operators, accountants, payroll specialists, HR managers, and contact center operators.
Notably, employment in these occupations continues to grow despite the development of AI. The reason is simple: technology adoption remains uneven so far. The technology sector shows the greatest activity, while office and administrative fields lag behind. The potential for transformation is enormous, but no large-scale labor market upheavals are visible in 2025.
Singapore leads, women at risk
Among ASEAN countries with available data (9 out of 11), the highest share of AI-exposed workers is recorded in Singapore — 42.2%. This is unsurprising: the city-state has a developed digital infrastructure, access to highly skilled specialists, and a comprehensive government strategy for AI adoption. It is followed by the Philippines (28.1%), Indonesia (21.7%), Vietnam (20.8%), and Thailand (20.6%). The Philippines' high figure is partly explained by its economy's focus on services and IT outsourcing.
The gender gap deserves special attention: women are more than twice as likely as men to be employed in occupations with high AI exposure. This is due to their high representation in administrative, clerical, and professional positions. At the same time, no significant difference has been found between young workers (aged 15–24) and older age groups.
My expert perspective: policy is everything
As I have repeatedly noted in my analytical reports, the key factor here is not technology but political decisions. Investments in human capital, retraining programs, and social protection — these will determine whether AI becomes a catalyst for growth or a cause of crisis. The ILO recommends that ASEAN countries expand upskilling programs, with particular attention to women and youth, and support small and medium-sized enterprises.
In my view, the current situation resembles the early stages of the digital revolution: panic is exaggerated, and adaptation is inevitable. However, without targeted policies, the gap between prepared and unprepared workers will only widen. AI is a tool, and its impact will depend on how we use it.