The term “Agritech”, derived from “agriculture” and “technology”, refers to the use of advanced and innovative tools to optimise productivity and efficiency, reduce costs, and promote sustainability.
Agriculture is currently one of the sectors with the highest rate of innovation in response to the increasing demand for food, while resources dwindle due to climate change.
The advent of artificial intelligence, from crop monitoring using drones equipped with advanced sensors to data analysis for predicting diseases and pests, enables the identification of crops capable of withstanding climate change, real-time nutrient management through soil analysis, and the genetic editing of seeds.
The global Agritech market, valued at approximately $24.42 billion in 2024, is expected to reach $48.98 billion by 2030.
The adoption of technology will significantly reduce food waste.
The Asia-Pacific region is set to grow at the highest CAGR, driven by government programmes in emerging nations and the adoption of precision agricultural technology. Countries such as China and India are providing grants and subsidies to accelerate Agritech adoption.
Italian agriculture, where 72% of businesses use at least one smart technology, remains a leader within the European Union, surpassing countries like Spain, France, and Germany, with an added value of €42.4 billion in 2024.
Future scenarios suggest that the irrigation segment will dominate the global market.
A key factor in Agritech’s success is data services, which hold value for both farmers and the industry. The estimated market size of smart crop monitoring, valued at around $3.3 billion in 2023, is expected to surpass $7 billion by 2028.
Agritech enhances productivity, sustainability, and efficiency in the agricultural sector, but it must be promoted on a large scale to ensure equal access for all farmers. The systemic vision of design serves as the link between science, business, and technology, supporting humanity’s nourishment today and in the future by enabling adaptation to new climate scenarios and evolving food needs.