Driving the Digital Future: Huawei Unveils 2024 Global Digitalization Index (GDI)

Emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), 5G, and cloud computing are revolutionizing how we live, work, and connect. Huawei Technologies, in collaboration with the International Data Corporation (IDC), recently released the Global Digitalization Index 2024 (GDI). This report underscores the vital role of digital and intelligent transformation in fostering global economic growth.

At the launch event, David Wang, Huawei’s Executive Director of the Board and Chairman of the ICT Infrastructure Managing Board, emphasized, “The digital and intelligent revolution will redefine all economic activities, including production, distribution, exchange, and consumption. ICT infrastructure is the cornerstone of this transformation, and Huawei will continue to innovate and collaborate with industry players to create a thriving digital economy.”

Quantifying Digital Progress Across 77 Nations

The GDI evaluates digital transformation in 77 countries, representing 93% of global GDP and 80% of the population. Leveraging 42 key indicators, the report reveals that digitally advanced “Frontrunner” nations see significant economic benefits: a one-point increase in their GDI score raises GDP per capita by USD 945. Moreover, every dollar invested in digital transformation generates a return of USD 8.3 in the digital economy, highlighting the unparalleled ROI of digital infrastructure development.

Jeffrey Zhou, President of ICT Marketing at Huawei, noted, “In the era of the digital economy, data is becoming a critical factor. Continuous innovation in digital infrastructure is essential to balance the supply and demand of data. Ubiquitous connectivity serves as the main artery, while a strong digital foundation and green energy are the engines driving growth.”

Bocar Ba, UN Broadband Commissioner and CEO of SAMENA Telecommunications Council, further emphasized the significance of the report: “The GDI is not just another benchmark tool. It’s a road map that will lead us to the achievement of digital transformation.”

Three Clusters of Digital Maturity

The GDI categorizes countries into three clusters:

• Frontrunners: Mediam- and high-income nations such as the United States, Singapore, and China lead in ICT investment, advanced connectivity, and green energy adoption.

• Adopters: Middle-income developing countries like Thailand and Brazil are scaling foundational technologies to expand their digital economies.

• Starters: Developing and emerging nations, including Kenya and Ghana, are building essential infrastructure to bridge digital gaps and unlock growth.

Four Pillars of the Digital Economy

The GDI identifies four key enablers for digital transformation:

1. Ubiquitous Connectivity: High-speed broadband and 5G networks are fundamental to bridging the digital divide.

2. Digital Foundation: Technologies like cloud computing, IoT, and AI accelerate industrial innovation.

3. Green Energy: Renewable energy is central to sustainable digital growth.

4. Policy & Ecosystem: Supportive regulatory frameworks and collaborative ecosystems are critical for equitable growth.

Voices from the Global Digital Landscape

During the GDI launch, Dr. Tshilidzi Marwala, Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations, stated, “We are in the midst of a digital age driven by unprecedented advancements. It is imperative that stakeholders across academia, the private sector, and governments collaborate to address challenges and bridge divides to build a sustainable future.”

Dr. Heba Abdel Monem Hamza of Egypt’s Information and Decision Support Center echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the role of digital innovation in driving economic development.

The Road Ahead

The GDI report encourages nations to tailor strategies for their unique circumstances. As intelligent applications are adopted more broadly, Huawei will refine the GDI into a Global Digitalization & Intelligence Index (GDII), offering more comprehensive insights into the future of the digital economy.

David Wang concluded, “Collaboration is the key to unlocking the full potential of the digital economy. Together, we can usher in an intelligent world, where technology drives sustainability and prosperity for all.”

Jianjiang Feng, the associate professor in the Department of Automation, Tsinghua University, told Pandaily, “China has led in terms of applied sciences and technologies, but US has been ahead in pure science. The cooperation is very important.”

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