From the Traditional Economy to the Digital Economy:Challenges and Transformations
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.26867/se.2025.v14i2.186Keywords:
Digital economy, productivity and employment, e-commerce, public policiesAbstract
The digital economy represents a structural transformation that redefines the foundations of economic theory through the convergence of big data, artificial intelligence (AI), digital platforms, and disruptive technologies. This shift impacts production, trade, macroeconomic measurement, logistics, education, and the labor market. E-commerce is gradually displacing physical markets and poses regulatory challenges, while indicators such as GDP show limitations in capturing the value of intangible assets, data, and free digital services. Consequently, metrics such as GDP-B and the inclusion of data capital in national accounts have been proposed. Sectors like agriculture and healthcare are adopting AI and machine learning to optimize processes and reduce costs. The labor market is being reshaped by automation, remote work, and the platform economy, creating opportunities in digital jobs while also increasing risks of precarious work, which requires policies focused on training and technological reskilling. Education, in turn, must foster digital skills and critical thinking through tools like Google Colab and EdTech platforms. Reducing the digital divide, ensuring equity, and updating regulatory frameworks are key conditions for inclusive development in the digital economy of the
21st century
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