The preponderant role of artificial intelligence in labor change
Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the job market, presenting numerous challenges and opportunities. Within this context, investment in agricultural land emerges as an economic lifeline for those seeking stability in an uncertain future. This report explores the importance of agriculture and fig production as a viable alternative in the face of automation and the changing nature of work, focusing on adapting our investment strategies in response.
The artificial intelligence revolution is impacting all sectors of the labor market, with expectations that automated systems will replace critical roles in research, management, design, and other fields. According to a report by McKinsey & Company (2020), an estimated 75 to 375 million workers worldwide (3% to 14% of the global workforce) may need to change occupations due to AI-driven automation. Given these trends, the World Economic Forum (2020) warns that approximately 85 million jobs will be lost to automation by 2025, although it also anticipates the creation of 97 million new roles to meet the evolving needs of the division of labor.
This automation will not only have an immediate effect, but will also create a scenario in which skills focused on creativity, judgment, and human interaction will be increasingly valued. The FAO (2021) highlights that pressure on agricultural resources will increase due to a projected population growth reaching 9.7 billion by 2050. In this context of change and labor challenges, productive spaces and arable land become economic havens.
Land investment as a sustainable strategy
Investing in agricultural land is not only a sound strategy for mitigating job risks related to automation, but it has also proven to be an economically viable option during periods of high inflation. According to a World Bank report (2022), tangible assets, such as land, have demonstrated their value as a store of value during times of economic instability. This asset not only offers economic opportunities but will also contribute to the creation of sustainable jobs in a world where there will be a surplus of labor in other sectors due to automation.
Investment in agricultural land is emerging not only as an economic lifeline but also as a clear necessity to absorb the workforce that will be unable to find employment in other industries. The agricultural sector, especially with the support of new technologies, benefits from improved productivity and operational efficiency. The combination of AI with human labor in the fields promises to create an environment where food production remains robust and stable.
Production and demand for figs in the world
Fig production has shown steady growth over the last decade and has become a strategic crop. According to FAO data from 2021, the global area cultivated with figs reached approximately 281,522 hectares, with a total production of 1,264,943 tons. The main producing countries are Turkey, Egypt, and Spain, which together account for more than 70% of global production. Specifically, Turkey, with approximately 320,000 tons, is the international leader, followed by Egypt with 298,497 tons and Spain with 30,000 tons in Europe (Spanish Ministry of Agriculture, 2021).
The demand for figs, both fresh and dried, has increased due to growing interest in healthy and natural foods. According to a report by Market Research Future (2022), the global fig market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.2% between 2022 and 2027, driven by increasing health and wellness awareness. Countries with high purchasing power, such as those in the European Union and the United States, are showing a significant increase in demand for both fresh and processed figs.
Chile as a fruit-producing center
Chile has positioned itself as a leading producer and exporter of fruit in the Southern Hemisphere, leveraging its geographic location to optimize production during the off-season compared to the Northern Hemisphere. During the Northern Hemisphere winter, Chile can emerge as a key supplier, reaching important markets that demand fresh fruit, distributed at times when other producers are unable to meet demand. According to ProChile, in 2021, Chile exported more than 2.5 million tons of various fruits, highlighting its international competitiveness.
Figs are emerging as a strategic crop in Chile's fruit portfolio, benefiting from growing demand. The Chilean Fruit Exporters Association (ASOEX) reports an increase in the cultivated area of figs, while at the same time, growing consumer interest in the product is anticipated, presenting a valuable opportunity for investors. According to our estimates, the planted area of figs in Chile is less than 1,000 hectares. Therefore, considering the corresponding sales and distribution channels, this area represents a sound investment opportunity.
Conclusions
This report highlights that investment in land, and particularly in crops like figs, is emerging as a viable option for generating income and creating jobs at a time when artificial intelligence is radically reshaping the labor landscape. Far from being a declining sector, agriculture is establishing itself as key to economic stability and social resilience, thus ensuring continuity in food production, even in the face of future challenges.
Sources consulted
1. FAO (2021). "Food Outlook: Fig Production Report."
2. McKinsey & Company (2020). "Land Investment: Opportunities and Challenges."
3. World Bank (2022). "Report on Investment in Tangible Assets."
4. Spanish Ministry of Agriculture (2021). "Agricultural Production Statistics."
5. Market Research Future (2022). "Global Fig Market Report."
6. ProChile (2021). "Report on Chilean Fruit Exports."
7. ASOEX (2021). "Statistics on Fig Production and Export in Chile."
8. World Economic Forum (2020). "Future of Jobs Report 2020."
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