Key Takeaway
The gap between US and non-US technology executives is widening, with 50% of non-US CIOs anticipating changes in vendor engagement due to regional factors, compared to 31% of US counterparts. One-third of non-US CIOs plan to focus on regional tech vendors, while only 16% of US CIOs do the same. This shift poses a threat to US vendors’ global market position. Additionally, as geopolitical issues affect procurement, organizations are prioritizing the operationalization of AI to demonstrate value, moving from pilot projects in 2025 to delivering measurable ROI in 2026, according to Gartner.
“This criterion is expected to gain significance due to increasing geopolitical risks and cost pressures.”
The transatlantic divide
The disparity between US and non-US technology executives is growing, according to Gartner.
The data indicates that 50% of CIOs and technology executives outside the US foresee changes in vendor engagement driven by regional factors, in contrast to only 31% of their US-based peers.
Among non-US CIOs, one in three plans to shift their focus toward regional tech vendors, while just 16% of US CIOs indicate a similar intention.
“All technology vendors, particularly those in the US, need to recognize this as it poses a threat to their ability to be seen as ‘vendors of choice’ in a global market,” Chris states.
“This could mark the beginning of a shift in dominance that will unfold over the coming years.”
From pilots to agentic AI
While geopolitics influences procurement, the focus in the boardroom is on operationalizing AI to achieve outcomes and demonstrate value.
Gartner’s report indicates that the stakes are rising.
“2025 was focused on AI pilots, discovery, and experimentation. In 2026, the emphasis will shift to delivering agentic AI ROI,” says Kris van Riper, Practice Vice President at Gartner.
