At the recent World Economic Forum (WEF), Jeff Rowe, CEO of Syngenta Group, unveiled five transformative trends in artificial intelligence (AI) poised to redefine agriculture by 2025. Speaking during a panel discussion titled “From Soil to Silicon: How Advanced Technologies are Cultivating the Future of Sustainable Ag” at Bloomberg House, Rowe emphasized that this year will mark a pivotal shift where AI will move from theoretical applications to practical, field-level transformations.
The first trend highlighted by Rowe is the integration of AI in research and development. At Syngenta, machine learning models are currently employed across all research projects to discover novel active ingredients for both synthetic and biological products. This approach not only accelerates the discovery process but also enhances the efficacy of agricultural inputs. The second trend focuses on AI in the field, where advanced systems are being developed to monitor and predict soil health. These AI-driven tools will provide growers with high-resolution maps detailing soil nutrients, texture, and carbon levels, enabling more informed decision-making.
Rowe also discussed the importance of AI in empowering farmers directly through GenAI-enabled digital tools that act as agronomic advisors. These tools help farmers identify optimal crop management practices, thereby increasing productivity and sustainability. The fourth trend pertains to AI in pest management, where precision agriculture techniques and data-driven solutions allow for targeted application of crop protection products, ensuring that only infested areas are treated. This not only minimizes waste but also reduces environmental impact.
Lastly, AI’s role in supply chain management is becoming increasingly critical. With capabilities in demand forecasting and market prediction, AI can help reduce overproduction and waste, ultimately optimizing logistics and enhancing efficiency across the agricultural sector. Rowe remarked, “AI and digital tools are revolutionizing farming and sustainable practices,” highlighting the integration of satellite imagery, drones, and soil maps that facilitate precise crop management. Predictive analytics powered by AI transforms traditional farming practices, shifting them from reactive to proactive strategies.
The implications of these advancements are significant. The global AgriTech market, valued at $24.19 billion in 2023, is projected to soar to $54.17 billion by 2029. Similarly, the market for AI in agriculture is expected to grow from $1.7 billion in 2023 to $4.7 billion by 2028. This rapid growth underscores the economic potential of these technologies, particularly in enhancing productivity and sustainability in agriculture.
During the panel, Rowe and Suzanne DiBianca, Executive Vice President & Chief Impact Officer at Salesforce, underscored the necessity for collaboration among policymakers, businesses, and stakeholders to address the financial and technical barriers that farmers face in adopting these innovations. They emphasized that the synergy between digital technologies and sustainable farming practices is essential for empowering farmers to combat climate change while improving productivity.
As the agricultural sector embraces these technological advancements, it is paving the way for a resilient food system that promises benefits for both people and the planet. The future of agriculture, as outlined by Rowe, is not just about increased yields but also about fostering sustainable practices that ensure food security in an ever-changing global landscape.
