The Colombian government has approved the National Artificial Intelligence Policy (Document CONPES 4144), a strategic roadmap that outlines 106 actions designed to accelerate artificial intelligence (AI) development and adoption across the country. With a COP 479 billion (USD 115.9 million) investment earmarked for implementation through 2030, the policy aims to position Colombia as a leader in responsible AI innovation in Latin America.
The policy, led by the Department of National Planning (DNP) and the Ministry of Information and Communications Technology (MinTIC), is structured around six key pillars:
1. Ethics and Governance
Establishing a regulatory framework to ensure the responsible and ethical use of AI.
2. Data and Infrastructure
Enhancing data availability, digital infrastructure, and computational capabilities.
3. Research, Development, and Innovation (R&D+i)
Strengthening AI-focused research and fostering technological advancements.
4. Talent Development and Digital Skills
Expanding AI-related education and workforce capabilities.
5. Risk Mitigation
Identifying and addressing potential AI risks, including biases, cybersecurity threats, and labour market disruptions.
6. AI Adoption and Use
Encouraging AI integration in the public and private sectors to drive economic and social transformation.
Strategic Objectives and National Impact
The policy responds to Colombia’s lagging performance in global AI indices, such as the Global AI Index 2022 and the Government AI Readiness Index 2023, which highlight the country’s need for improved AI governance, infrastructure, and investment. With this policy, Colombia aims to close these gaps and harness AI to tackle pressing national challenges, including food security, poverty reduction, and digital transformation.
Through this strategy, the government seeks to boost technological sovereignty, ensuring that AI solutions developed in Colombia align with national priorities and societal priorities. Additionally, the policy aims to foster a collaborative ecosystem where academia, industry, and government agencies contribute to a shared vision of AI as a force for economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability.
Implementation and Multi-Sector Collaboration
The government has outlined 106 specific actions to be executed over the next five years, involving key ministries and agencies. These include regulatory updates, infrastructure investments, and international cooperation efforts to align with global AI governance frameworks. The strategy emphasises public-private partnerships, leveraging expertise from tech companies, universities, and civil society to drive innovation and knowledge-sharing.
Among the primary initiatives, Colombia plans to:
- Develop a national AI research centre to advance scientific contributions and drive applied innovation.
- Strengthen AI ethics and regulatory frameworks to protect fundamental rights and prevent discriminatory biases.
- Enhance data accessibility and interoperability to support AI development in key sectors such as healthcare, education, and finance.
- Invest in AI-driven solutions to optimise public services, including smart governance, predictive analytics in healthcare, and automation in administrative processes.
Challenges and Future Prospects
While the policy sets a robust foundation, its success will depend on the effective execution and implementation of the several actions outlined. Key challenges include bridging the digital divide, ensuring equitable access to AI education, and fostering a regulatory environment that balances innovation with ethical considerations.
Updating or modifying radio spectrum frameworks to promote AI is expected to be a demanding task, as it is not clear how to harmonise it with connectivity and technology neutrality frameworks. Data governance and algorithmic transparency are areas likely to need further development from Colombian authorities.
Final Thoughts
As Colombia embarks on this ambitious AI strategy, the success of CONPES 4144 will hinge on its ability to foster collaboration between government, industry, academia, and civil society. The policy’s impact needs to be closely monitored to ensure AI serves as a driver of economic growth, social equity, and sustainable development.
Stay Ahead of Uncertainty
As the leading tech policy firm, Access Partnership can guide you through this transformative period. Our expertise in regulatory advocacy and market strategies ensures that your organisation is prepared to adapt to these transformations.
To learn how you can navigate the implications of Colombia’s AI policy and leverage opportunities in this evolving landscape, please contact Geusseppe Gonzalez at [email protected]
