The digitalization of agriculture is becoming a key element in the modernization of the agri-food sector, with a direct impact on productivity and sustainability. According to a 2024 report by the European Commission, over 60% of farms in Western Europe use digital technologies such as IoT sensors, drones, and artificial intelligence, while in Romania the share barely exceeds 15%.

INS data show that farms that have adopted digital systems recorded productivity increases of 20–25%. “Digital technologies are no longer a luxury, but a condition for the survival of farms in the context of climate change and traceability requirements,” stated an expert from MADR. FAO confirms that digitalization helps reduce water consumption by 30% and pesticide use by 20% through resource optimization. The World Bank notes that the adoption of AI in agriculture brings significant competitive advantages, particularly for medium and large farms.

For Romania, the challenges are linked to high costs and the lack of farmer training, but the European funds available through the 2023–2027 CAP Strategic Plan (PNS) can accelerate this process. In the long run, the digitalization of Romanian farms will be essential for integration into European value chains and for maintaining competitiveness on the global market.

(Photo: Freepik)