Argentina’s industry stands at the threshold of a deep transformation driven by the growing adoption of robotics and artificial intelligence (AI).
Forecasts point to a significant increase in the automation of industrial processes in the coming years, promising greater production efficiency, while also raising important challenges for the labor market.
A 50% increase in the number of industrial robots is projected for 2025 and 2026, raising the current fleet from 3,000 to 4,500 units. This progress will not be limited to large corporations; a study by the National University of La Plata reveals that 65% of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that have incorporated robotic technology have already experienced a 30% increase in production.
Perceptions of artificial intelligence are equally optimistic. A Microsoft survey shows that 84% of Argentine SMEs believe AI has a positive impact on productivity, with a potential estimated gain of 34%. In fact, 70% of these companies have already expressed their intention to adopt AI technologies.
AI’s influence spans the entire industrial value chain, optimizing processes in previously unimaginable ways. From predictive maintenance—which anticipates machinery failures and reduces downtime—to intelligent inventory management and logistics, AI is redefining efficiency.
In key sectors such as the automotive industry, AI is already used for quality control through machine vision, real-time equipment monitoring, and supply chain optimization. The food and beverage industry employs automation to enhance safety, traceability, and efficiency on production lines. Meanwhile, the metallurgical sector is deploying robots for repetitive and hazardous tasks such as handling large parts, assembly, welding, and painting—improving both product quality and worker productivity and safety.
The rise of automation naturally raises concerns about the future of employment. Regional and international studies estimate that a significant percentage of current jobs in Argentina are highly likely to be automated in the coming decades. The most vulnerable roles are those involving repetitive and manual tasks.
However, the outlook is not solely about job loss. The shift toward Industry 4.0 is also generating new job opportunities and driving demand for new skill sets. There will be a growing need for technicians specialized in robot programming and maintenance, data analysts who can interpret information generated by AI systems, and industrial cybersecurity experts.
This transformation is also redefining the skills valued in the labor market. So-called “soft skills” such as critical thinking, complex problem-solving, creativity, and the ability to collaborate with intelligent systems are becoming essential—and for now, remain irreplaceable by technology.
Argentina’s challenge lies in accompanying this transition with active labor training and reskilling policies. Investment in technical and university education will be essential to prepare the workforce for the jobs of the future, along with the implementation of training programs for workers whose roles may be displaced by automation.
Collaboration among the public sector, private industry, and educational institutions will be key to successfully navigating this industrial revolution and ensuring that its benefits reach all sectors of society.