Leveraging AI and Business Intelligence for Economic Transformation in SAARC Nations

Purpose: To examine the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and business intelligence (BI) in driving inclusive growth, institutional reform, and digital transformation across SAARC nations. Research Methodology: A qualitative, comparative case study approach analysing recent AI and BI initiatives, policies, and sectoral applications in all eight SAARC countries. Findings and Results: The region exhibits uneven progress – India leads in AI innovation, while others show emerging or pilot-level adoption. Key barriers include infrastructural deficits, regulatory gaps, limited human capital, and financial constraints. Strategic opportunities lie in AI-first policies, BI democratisation, and regional innovation hubs. Originality/Value: Offers a rare, region-wide analysis aligning AI and BI strategies with sustainable development goals (SDGs), advocating ethical governance and regional cooperation. Conclusion: AI and BI, if equitably and strategically implemented, can become pivotal drivers of sustainable, resilient, and integrated development across South Asia.