agtech

Agtech, short for agricultural technology, refers to the use of hardware, software and services that aim to improve the productivity, efficiency and sustainability of agriculture. It covers farming, livestock, and the broader food system, from field to fork. The goal is to optimize input use, increase yields, reduce environmental impact, and build resilience to climate change.

Core areas include precision agriculture (variable-rate irrigation and fertilization, soil moisture sensing, crop monitoring), autonomous farming equipment such as robotic harvesters and weeders, drones and remote sensing, and data platforms powered by artificial intelligence. In controlled environments, greenhouse automation, hydroponics and vertical farming apply sensors, climate control and automated irrigation. Genetic research, including genomics and gene editing, supports the development of improved crop varieties.

Supply chain innovations such as traceability, cold-chain monitoring, and farm-management software connect production with markets. Adoption is driven by higher input costs, labor shortages, and climate risk, along with demand for sustainable practices. Benefits include reduced water and chemical use, lower waste, and better decision making. Challenges include high upfront costs, data interoperability and ownership concerns, regulatory variability, and unequal access for smallholders. The field features ongoing activity from startups, established agri-food companies, and public research institutions worldwide.