Cover OpenAI CEO Sam Altman spoke at the AI research body's first developer conference in California in 2023 (Photo: Getty Images)
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman spoke at the AI research body's first developer conference in California in 2023 (Photo: Getty Images)
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The latest report from the World Economic Forum explores how factors such as AI and geopolitics are expected to impact businesses by 2030
In the next five years, 170 million new jobs will emerge, while 90 million existing positions are likely to be phased out, according to a World Economic Forum report.
The latest edition of The Future of Jobs Report 2025, based on a survey of over 1,000 global employers, identifies five factors shaping changes in the labour market: technological advancements, the green transition, geoeconomic fragmentation, economic uncertainty and demographic shifts.
Below, we spotlight insights from the report on how these factors and company strategies are shaping the future of jobs and employment trends.
Will AI replace jobs?
Approximately 86 per cent of employers anticipate that AI and information processing technology will significantly impact their companies by 2030, particularly larger corporations and sectors like finance and electronics.
The primary barrier to AI adoption is the existing workforce’s lack of necessary skills. Companies will need to implement strategies for upskilling and reskilling employees while recruiting new talent capable of working with and designing AI technologies.
However, a substantial number of executives—around 41 per cent—expect to reduce roles in their companies that AI could potentially replace. Positions such as cashiers, administrative assistants and building caretakers are expected to experience the largest declines.
Read more: Responsible AI pioneer Dr Rumman Chowdhury on what she wants everyone to know about AI
What new jobs are likely to emerge?
Above Farmers pick soilless-cultivated strawberries at a base in China’s Kunming (Photo: Getty Images)
Farmers pick soilless-cultivated strawberries at a base in China’s Kunming (Photo: Getty Images)
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Farm workers, labourers and other agricultural positions are among the fastest-growing occupations, with approximately 35 million new jobs expected over the next five years. This growth is fuelled by the green transition, as companies focus on reducing carbon emissions and adapting to climate change.
There will be an increasing need for light truck and delivery service drivers to support the ongoing growth of e-commerce. Similarly, the demand for software and application developers is rising, driven by the expansion of technology-related industries as we pursue more digital solutions.
As the population ages and the working-age demographic expands, job opportunities in the care sector and in higher and secondary education are expected to increase.
What’s next for DEI?
Above Technology giant Meta has announced the retraction of its DEI efforts in January 2025 (Photo: Getty Images)
Technology giant Meta has announced the retraction of its DEI efforts in January 2025 (Photo: Getty Images)
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The report also states that there is a growing number of companies adopting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programmes, particularly among larger organisations with over 50,000 employees and those based in North America.
Approximately 83 per cent of surveyed employers have implemented such policies, marking a 16 per cent increase since 2023. Women, individuals with disabilities and those under the age of 25 are prioritised in DEI initiatives worldwide.
Over the next five years, companies are expected to enhance their DEI efforts by providing training for management and staff, as well as launching targeted recruitment initiatives.
In the past few months, however, several major corporations and technology giants including Amazon, McDonald’s, Meta and Ford have announced the reduction or halting of their DEI efforts. In response to the trend, companies such as Apple and Costco have come out to publicly defend their DEI policies.
Read more: Global companies are rolling back DEI programmes—here’s what you need to know
How will geopolitical tensions impact businesses?
Above US President-elect Donald Trump takes the oath of office from US Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts during his inauguration ceremony on January 20, 2025 (Photo: Getty Images)
US President-elect Donald Trump takes the oath of office from US Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts during his inauguration ceremony on January 20, 2025 (Photo: Getty Images)
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Between 2020 and 2024, the World Trade Organization reported a doubling of trade restrictions. These protectionist measures, often in response to geopolitical challenges, risk slowing global economic growth and hampering collaboration on critical issues like climate change by restricting open innovation and technology transfer.
Employers in East Asia and North America express greater concern about how restrictions on global trade and investment may influence their operations, so do those from markets with tighter trade relations with the US and China, such as Singapore and South Korea.
Industries reliant on global supply chains and exposure to international markets—such as automotive and metals—are especially vulnerable to related policy changes.
Read more: 8 guests we were surprised—and puzzled—to see at Donald Trump’s inauguration
Which skill sets are the most in demand?
About 40 per cent of employees’ current skill sets are expected to change or become obsolete in the next five years. The most sought-after skills by employers include analytical thinking, followed by resilience, flexibility and agility, along with leadership and social influence.
The importance of technology-related skills, such as AI and big data, is anticipated to rise in the coming years. These technical competencies are most effective when combined with soft skills like creative thinking and lifelong learning.
Meanwhile, the demand for manual dexterity, endurance and precision will decline.
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Based in Hong Kong, editor Yoyo Chow covers the people and ideas redefining Asia’s future—from cutting-edge innovation and AI to bold moves in sustainability and diversity. She also drives content for Tatler Gen.T in Hong Kong, a platform and community spotlighting the region’s next generation of startup founders, creatives and changemakers.
Before that, she was a video journalist producing content for international TV and digital platforms, including Reuters and South China Morning Post. If you have a powerful story to share, she’s all ears. Send press materials, event invites and any inquiries to yoyo.chow@tatlerasia.com.
