Agricultural digitalization is no longer limited to modern equipment — it now means data integration, connectivity, and real-time analytics. According to the European Commission (2024), over 80% of EU farms are expected to be connected to integrated digital platforms by 2030. In Romania, however, the process is still in its early stages, with a digitalization rate estimated at just 18%, according to the National Institute of Statistics.

Through the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR) and the 2023–2027 National Strategic Plan (PNS), Romania is financing agricultural data centers and national digital traceability systems, including for milk and meat. In 2024, AFIR approved pilot projects in five counties, focusing on sensor networks and digital irrigation management.

Digitalization is not just about technology — it is about mindset. A farm that uses satellite data to monitor soil and predict yields can reduce fertilizer costs by up to 25%, according to DG AGRI. Moreover, integrated production tracking systems improve access to European funding and certification programs.

For this transformation to have a real impact, Romania needs a stable rural digital infrastructure, modern agricultural advisory services, and continuous professional training. In agriculture, data is the new fuel — and those who know how to use it will lead the market.

(Photo: Freepik)