APAC enterprises eye AI benefits in 2 to 5 years

As the Asia-Pacific region continues to embrace the promises of artificial intelligence (AI), a recent study commissioned by IBM reveals that nearly 60% of organisations expect to realise the benefits of their AI investments within the next two to five years. The survey “APAC AI Outlook 2025” offers valuable insights into how businesses are transitioning from experimentation with AI to prioritising return on investment (ROI) in the coming years.

The anticipated timeline for AI benefits indicates cautious optimism among enterprises, with only 11% expecting returns within the next two years. This slower pace underscores the importance of strategic planning in AI deployment, particularly as businesses navigate the complexities of integrating new technologies into their core functions.

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A recent study done by IBM shows that almost 60% of organisations anticipate realising the returns on their AI investments in the next two to five years, as the Asia-Pacific region continues to embrace the promise of AI. The survey highlights a significant shift in focus among enterprises, particularly in India, where organisations are leading the charge in leveraging AI strategically.

Companies are prioritising key areas such as innovation (26%), revenue generation (21%), cost savings (12%), and enhancing employee productivity (12%). This emphasis on tangible returns from AI projects shows a maturation in the understanding of AI’s potential to drive real business value beyond mere experimentation.

In 2025, Indian enterprises are set to focus on enhancing customer experience (27%), effective planning and strategy (16%), and optimising IT functions (16%). However, these ambitions are not without their hurdles. The report identifies substantial challenges, including data accessibility issues (46%), limited AI skills (42%), and difficulties in integration and scaling (38%). Addressing these barriers will be crucial for organisations striving to achieve their AI goals.

According to Sandip Patel, managing director of IBM India & South Asia, “In 2025, AI is set to be the game-changer for Indian enterprises, revolutionising productivity and enabling unprecedented scalability.” Moving beyond low-risk experiments to strategic initiatives that yield a competitive edge and improved ROI will be pivotal in AI’s evolution.

Evolution of AI deployment trends

The study outlines five key trends shaping the AI landscape in the region:

• AI-led Revenue Generation: Companies are increasingly focusing on leveraging AI technologies to boost revenue streams and drive profitability.
• Specialised Models: The rise of smaller, open-source models tailored to specific use cases is becoming a trend. These models require less training data and computational resources, making them more accessible for organisations, particularly in regional contexts.
• Unified AI Integration: Advanced orchestration tools are streamlining the integration of AI across various business processes. This evolving “Unified AI” ecosystem enhances security, flexibility, and cost efficiency, enabling seamless operation between disparate systems.
• Agentic AI Workflows: AI agents that autonomously execute tasks are redefining operational workflows. This move toward agentic AI enhances collaboration with human workers, fostering greater operational efficiencies.
• Human-Centred AI Innovations: The integration of AI is increasingly designed to complement human capabilities, focusing on automating routine tasks while allowing employees to engage in more creative and innovative activities.

As CEO of Ecosystem, Ullrich Loeffler said, “Human beings are indispensable in the evolution of AI. This collaborative approach is vital for unlocking the full potential of AI technologies.”

Overcoming challenges for a successful AI future

While the optimism surrounding AI is encouraging, organisations must confront significant obstacles to maximise its benefits. Ensuring data accessibility and enhancing AI skills are critical to overcoming integration challenges and maximising the potential of AI initiatives. By prioritising training and a culture of continuous learning, companies can foster an environment where both AI and human workers thrive together.

In conclusion, the findings from the IBM survey underscore a pivotal moment for AI adoption in the Asia-Pacific region. ​By strategically transitioning from AI experimentation to focused initiatives that enhance ROI, organisations can harness the transformative potential of AI to drive innovation, revenue growth, and improved operational efficiency.​

As businesses navigate these changes, the key to success will be balancing technological advancements with a human-centered approach, ensuring that AI technologies enhance rather than replace the invaluable contributions of human talent.