Agrifood technology and innovation in Spain

Agricultural innovation initiatives in Spain have focused on bridging the gap between scientific research and the private sector. In Huesca, the Aragon Food Research and Technology Center (CITA) organized a meeting to promote knowledge transfer, specifically addressing topics such as methane emission control, nitrogen fertilization optimization, and the valorization of agricultural by-products.

Following this, the second Agrobiotech Innovation Forum opened in Lleida, featuring over 200 companies. The forum highlighted technological advancements like autonomous electric tractors and agricultural robots to address climate change and resource scarcity. During the event, Spain’s Secretary of State for Agriculture and Food, Begoña García, noted that under preliminary EU Common Agricultural Policy reforms, at least 10% of funds will be dedicated to encouraging youth participation in the agri-food sectors. However, some industry professionals raised concerns that high production costs and shrinking profit margins could impede new investments in these technologies.