WASHINGTON — Amazon announced it will eliminate approximately 14,000 corporate jobs, marking its largest round of layoffs since 2022 as the company accelerates investments in artificial intelligence and trims costs in less profitable areas.

The reduction represents about 4% of Amazon’s global corporate workforce and comes amid a wave of restructuring across the tech industry as firms redirect capital toward AI infrastructure, automation, and cloud innovation.

Company executives framed the move as a strategic realignment rather than a retrenchment, emphasizing that Amazon’s overall headcount remains substantial given ongoing expansion in logistics, retail operations, and cloud computing. “We’re positioning Amazon for the next decade of growth — and AI is at the heart of that transformation,” one executive said.

The layoffs will affect roles in human resources, marketing, and some administrative divisions, according to internal communications reviewed by U.S. media. Amazon stated that it intends to provide affected employees with severance packages, career transition assistance, and continued health benefits for a limited period.

The decision reflects broader economic adjustments within Big Tech as companies shift resources from traditional operations to artificial intelligence research, data center infrastructure, and generative AI products. Analysts note that such strategic consolidation often precedes long-term innovation cycles, citing Amazon Web Services’ growing emphasis on AI-powered solutions as a key revenue driver.

While Amazon’s stock dipped slightly following the announcement, investors generally view the cuts as a prudent financial move amid a competitive global tech environment. With rivals like Microsoft, Google, and Apple ramping up AI spending, Amazon appears determined to maintain its edge through targeted efficiency and forward-looking investment.