AI adoption and innovation in global agriculture

Recent reports highlight the growing role of artificial intelligence and technological innovation in the agricultural sector. A McKinsey & Co report indicates that 17% of farmers worldwide have adopted generative AI, with adoption rates highest in Latin America (26%) and North America (23%). However, a significant gap exists in monetization, as only 4% of global farmers pay for these tools. The lower capital requirements of AI software compared to heavy machinery make it an attractive option for managing economic volatility.

Beyond generative AI, broader technological advancements such as precision agriculture—utilizing sensors, satellites, and drones—are being leveraged to improve production and risk management. While these innovations offer potential to combat global food insecurity, experts note that hundreds of millions of people still lack access to basic agricultural technologies. Addressing global hunger remains a complex challenge driven by poverty, inequality, and conflict, requiring scalable and affordable solutions to transform agrifood systems.