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East Africa Frontline News

NextFrontier Africa is a media platform spotlighting Africa’s emerging opportunities in technology, tourism, aviation, agriculture, health, logistics, real estate, trade, education, and e-commerce.

May 14.2025

2 Minutes Read

Can AI Finally Help Us Achieve the 15-Hour Workweek for E-commerce Success?

Glowing AI brain over laptop symbolizing 15-hour workweek AI.

Will AI Transform Our Workweek to 15 Hours?

As we continue to advance technologically, the question arises: Can innovations like artificial intelligence bring us closer to the long-anticipated 15-hour workweek that economist John Maynard Keynes predicted back in 1930? Keynes believed that technological advances would allow us to produce more in less time, leading to a significant reduction in the hours we spend working. However, here we are in 2023, and our workweeks remain lengthy, averaging 37 hours in Europe and even more in countries like India and the UAE.

The Endless Drive for More

Keynes had expected that once people obtained enough wealth, they would choose to work less. Yet, the contrary has happened. The desire for more—whether it's wealth, luxury, or education—has only intensified. As consumers continue to seek greater convenience and service, the demand for labor has stubbornly persisted.

Creation of New Industries

New technologies often lead to the birth of entire industries, which in turn demand more labor. For example, the advent of the automobile didn’t stop at faster transportation; it led to car manufacturing, repair industries, and urban development focused on road infrastructure. Even the environmental consequences of cars have birthed new jobs in sectors like sustainable energy and electric vehicles. As we integrate AI, the potential for new sectors—such as AI ethical compliance and maintenance—could maintain or even increase work hours.

A New Kind of Labor Force?

As we progress into a digital economy, many are entering the gig economy via e-commerce platforms, creating niche content and providing services right from their home offices. This shift brings opportunities for flexible work but doesn’t inherently lower the average workweek. Instead, it could lead to a reshaping of what work means in the future.

Embracing Change in Trade and E-commerce

For exporters, importers, and e-commerce businesses, adapting to these changes in labor dynamics is crucial. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) presents a unique opportunity for these sectors to thrive while balancing the evolving nature of work. Understanding how AI will redefine our interactions in trade and commerce can empower businesses to adapt and harness these innovations effectively.

Ultimately, it seems that while the 15-hour workweek remains a distant dream, the integration of AI and technology offers valuable insights into transforming labor without necessarily reducing it. By leveraging these advancements wisely, we may find ourselves in an era of work that is not just about reducing hours, but enhancing productivity in new and unexpected ways.

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Nigeria's Stunning WAFCON Win: What It Means for Trade and E-commerce

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Why The Fantastic Four's Opening Weekend Sets New Standards for Commerce

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Can AI Finally Help Us Achieve the 15-Hour Workweek for E-commerce Success?

Will AI Transform Our Workweek to 15 Hours?

The Endless Drive for More

Creation of New Industries

A New Kind of Labor Force?

Embracing Change in Trade and E-commerce

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