Experts warn Germany's AI 'window of opportunity is closing'

The next year and a half will determine whether Germany can keep pace in the global race to develop artificial intelligence (AI), according to a government task force.

The team of government experts warned on Monday that "despite a strong starting position, particularly in research," Germany risks finding itself in a situation where the gap between it and the US and China is steadily widening.

"The window of opportunity to narrow this gap will close soon," stated the final report by the government-appointed AI task force, which is due to be presented at the German government's Digital Summit in Berlin.

The report went on to say that the next 12 to 18 months will therefore be crucial in setting the course for the future.

The document, which has been seen by dpa, set out targets to ensure that Germany could remain a frontrunner. For example, by 2030, at least 80% of large enterprises and 55% of small and medium-sized enterprises should be using AI, and the number of AI start-ups is to triple.

Additionally, the share of economic output generated by AI is to exceed 10%, and 90% of federal authorities should be using at least one AI application to carry out core tasks by then.

According to the plans, alternatives to large AI models are to be promoted in cooperation with countries such as France and Canada.

The AI task force was set up by the federal government's National Security Council. Its aims by 2030 are that "talent, capital, research, computing capacity and entrepreneurial initiative should come together in [Germany] to translate innovations quickly, responsibly and effectively into growth, prosperity, security, as well as social progress, participation and democratic resilience."