Enterprise AI is facing significant challenges as it outgrows existing infrastructure, according to NTT DATA’s 2026 Global AI Report. The report highlights a critical gap between the importance of private and sovereign AI and the readiness of organisations to implement these systems effectively. Whilst 95% of respondents recognise the importance of private and sovereign AI, only 29% are prioritising sovereign AI in the near term.
The report identifies several key barriers to AI adoption in the Asia Pacific region. Notably, 66% of respondents cite cross-border data restrictions as a major challenge, whilst only 40% express high confidence in their cloud security posture. This lack of confidence in foundational security measures poses a significant risk to AI deployment.
Abhijit Dubey, CEO and Chief AI Officer at NTT DATA, emphasised the need for organisations to go beyond compliance and risk mitigation. “Our research shows AI leaders are pulling ahead by treating architecture, infrastructure, and governance as strategic requirements,” he stated.
The report outlines five shifts defining the next phase of enterprise AI, including the need for greater control over data access and security, and the increasing importance of data jurisdiction as an architectural constraint. Organisations that redesign their AI systems early are better positioned to succeed in regulated and data-sensitive environments.
NTT DATA’s research draws on insights from nearly 5,000 senior decision-makers across various industries and regions. As AI continues to evolve, the report underscores the importance of strategic infrastructure planning to harness its full potential.
