Economics of adoption for digital automated technologies in agriculture
Summary of expected impacts of technological adoption
DescriptionOverview of the initiative and its approach.
The document entitled ‘Economics of adoption for digital automated technologies in agriculture’ is a research-based resource designed to examine the drivers, barriers and economic implications influencing farmers’ decisions to adopt digital automation. The publication reviews cost structures, risk perceptions, labour dynamics, and expected returns associated with digital tools across farming systems.
TechnologyTechnology used by the initiative.
The resource discusses digital automated technologies such as robotics, sensor-based systems, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and IoT-enabled machinery that support automated monitoring and operations on farms.
TargetUsers, groups, or communities targeted by the initiative.
The resource is useful to researchers, policymakers, farm advisors, agribusinesses, and farmers seeking to understand the economic considerations behind adopting digital automated technologies. As of December 2025, the document has been downloaded over 1 800 times.
Business modelHow the initiative delivers and sustains its value.
The resource is publicly accessible and free of charge as part of FAO’s technical knowledge products.
ImpactThe observed or intended effects of the initiative.
The resource identified key economic determinants that influence technology uptake, including upfront investment costs, expected yield gains, labour savings, and uncertainty around long-term returns. A summary of the expected social, economic, and environmental impacts of such technological adoption was also presented, drawing from evidence from low- and middle-income countries.
Four BettersThe FAO Four Betters supported by the initiative.
Better production
Better environment
Better life
