Mexico is set to become the focal point for agri-food innovation and investment as the World Agri-Tech Innovation Summit arrives in Mexico City on October 29-30, 2024. Organized by Rethink Events, a William Reed company, this summit aims to catalyze climate-smart solutions in a country that is a global leader in the production of high-value fruits, vegetables, grains, and livestock. With a gross production value projected to reach $57 billion in 2024, Mexico’s agricultural sector is at a pivotal moment, facing increasing demand both domestically and for export, while grappling with the pressing challenges of drought and desertification.
The summit will serve as a platform for industry stakeholders, including international agribusinesses, food and beverage brands, technology providers, investors, and start-ups, to connect and explore emerging opportunities within Mexico’s rapidly evolving agri-food ecosystem. Jennie Moss, Founder & Managing Director at Rethink Events, emphasized the significance of Mexico as a key market for agri-food investment, particularly due to its close ties with the United States. “Farmers face huge challenges to optimize crop yields, address water scarcity, and seize new opportunities for biological crop protection,” she noted. The summit is designed to address these issues head-on, showcasing a range of agtech solutions that can benefit both large-scale and smallholder farms.
Over the course of two days, the summit will delve into critical topics that are shaping the future of agriculture in Mexico. Among these discussions will be strategies for empowering smallholder farmers by adapting agtech to meet their specific needs, which is essential for ensuring that innovations reach those who need them most. The summit will also focus on regenerative agriculture, exploring how to enable the adoption of climate-smart solutions that not only enhance productivity but also protect the environment.
Water scarcity is another pressing concern that will be addressed, with sessions dedicated to implementing smart irrigation practices that promote drought resilience. As biological crop protection continues to gain traction in the market, the summit will highlight opportunities for capitalizing on this growth, providing insights into the latest innovations in this field. Additionally, the digital transformation of Mexican agriculture will be explored, particularly the barriers to precision farming practices that could enhance productivity and sustainability.
Controlled environment horticulture, which allows for the production of fresh produce year-round, will also be a focal point, alongside discussions on improving productivity within the livestock and dairy value chains. The summit will not only provide a platform for established players but will also spotlight Mexico’s agtech innovators through start-up pitches, showcasing the next generation of solutions that could revolutionize the sector.
The implications of this summit extend beyond mere networking opportunities; it represents a concerted effort to address the urgent challenges facing the agricultural sector in Mexico. By fostering collaboration and investment in innovative technologies, the summit aims to create a more resilient agri-food system that can withstand environmental pressures while meeting the increasing demands of consumers.
Full details about the summit, including the agenda, speaking opportunities, and registration information, can be found at www.worldagritechmexico.com. As the agricultural landscape continues to evolve, events like the World Agri-Tech Innovation Summit are crucial in shaping the future of farming, ensuring that Mexico remains at the forefront of agri-food innovation on a global scale.