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The Rise of Robotic Process Automation in Chile: Technological Adoption, Perceptions, and Potential Social Impact in a Post-COVID Economy

Author

Listed:
  • Rios, Francisco

    (UIC Barcelona)

  • Peña, Camilo

  • Agnese, Pablo

    (UIC Barcelona)

Abstract

This paper reviews RPA adoption in Chile and estimates its future social impact. A survey of 103 professionals—mainly from services, mining, and engineering—shows most firms have not begun implementing RPA. Early adopters prioritize strategic alignment, tech readiness, and scalability, citing benefits such as productivity and efficiency, but also challenges like skills gaps, maintenance, and job-loss concerns. Large companies in IT, mining, and services lead post-Covid adoption. Using data from 1.5M firms, the study estimates that full RPA deployment in purchasing could displace up to 75,000 jobs, with a social cost of USD 1B, largely affecting services, commerce, healthcare, the public sector, and engineering. The Metropolitan Region would be most impacted, potentially losing over 45,000 jobs. The findings show how developing economies can adopt advanced technologies while managing social impacts.

Suggested Citation

  • Rios, Francisco & Peña, Camilo & Agnese, Pablo, 2025. "The Rise of Robotic Process Automation in Chile: Technological Adoption, Perceptions, and Potential Social Impact in a Post-COVID Economy," IZA Discussion Papers 18314, Institute of Labor Economics (IZA).
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izadps:dp18314
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    JEL classification:

    • L86 - Industrial Organization - - Industry Studies: Services - - - Information and Internet Services; Computer Software
    • M15 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Business Administration - - - IT Management
    • O32 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Management of Technological Innovation and R&D
    • O33 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Technological Change: Choices and Consequences; Diffusion Processes

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