ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AS A FACTOR OF STRUCTURAL CHANGES IN THE GLOBAL ECONOMY UNDER CONDITIONS OF ENTROPY: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES

Abstract

The article examines the impact of the integration of artificial intelligence technologies on  structural transformations in the global economy under conditions of increasing entropy of economic systems. The rapid development of artificial intelligence since the early 2000s has been driven by the expansion of digital infrastructure, exponential growth in data volumes, and the significant increase in computational capacity. These factors have accelerated the large-scale adoption of intelligent systems by enterprises and research institutions and have intensified the role of digital technologies in economic development. The paper analyzes the dynamics of artificial intelligence diffusion in the global economy after the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020, which significantly stimulated the implementation of intelligent technologies in healthcare, science, industry, logistics, finance, and other sectors. It is emphasized that artificial intelligence has evolved from a tool for automating individual operations into an important driver of structural economic transformation. Technologies such as machine learning, neural networks, and computer vision systems contribute to improving forecasting accuracy, optimizing production and management processes, and increasing overall productivity. Special attention is paid to the influence of artificial intelligence on labor markets and employment structures. The spread of intelligent technologies leads to the transformation of professional skills and competencies, while also creating potential risks associated with job displacement due to automation. At the same time, the development of artificial intelligence stimulates innovation, increases investment activity, and promotes cooperation between universities, research centers, and private companies. The study also highlights regional features of artificial intelligence development, particularly in the European Union and China, where large- scale strategic initiatives and investment programs aimed at strengthening technological competitiveness are being implemented. The main challenges associated with the diffusion of artificial intelligence technologies are summarized, including issues of data security, regulatory frameworks, economic inequality, and the transformation of global technological competition. The article emphasizes the need to develop balanced public policies aimed at supporting innovation while minimizing potential socio-economic risks associated with the rapid development of artificial intelligence.