AI for inclusive and resilient agri-food systems: Potential ways forward  

Global agri-food systems are under growing strain. Even though the world produces enough calories to feed more than the world’s entire population, one in eleven people – or nearly 700 million people – still face hunger. Climate shocks, fragile supply chains, and labour shortages increasingly threaten the resilience of agri-food systems worldwide. As pressure on farmers and supply chains intensifies, artificial intelligence (AI) is a promising tool to ensure that all stakeholders – including vulnerable populations – can benefit from the transition towards more resilient agri-food systems. 

Agri-food systems face growing strain – AI tools offer solutions 

The agricultural sector plays an essential role in economies and societies around the world, providing communities with reliable, quality food and tens of millions of jobs. Yet the global agri-food system is under pressure, as various issues, from climate challenges to workforce shortages, put strain on farmers and global supply chains.  

AI offers opportunities to address the needs of farmers and other actors in the agri-food system across diverse local contexts. And AI is already transforming agriculture and related supply chains. It helps farmers predict droughts, reduce pesticide use and identify crop diseases before they spread. It supports buyers, traders and retailers in making decisions regarding product availability, quality and prices. AI-enabled precision spraying can reduce pesticide use by up to 30% without compromising yields. Drought-tolerant traits identified using AI in sorghum and chickpea crops boost yields by up to 25% during dry seasons. And the Global AI Hybrid Rice Platform shortens breeding cycles by predicting optimal parent combinations.