Asia’s population is expected to increase from 4.6 billion to 5.3 billion in 2050(1). With limited arable land and natural resources available, improving food production will be key to meet the increased demand for food and changing consumer preferences.
As agri-food supply chains are increasingly interconnected - from input companies to farmers, traders, food companies and retailers – data and innovation are key to meet the increased demand for food. Better data collection, analysis and sharing will improve the integrity of the agri-food supply chain. Moreover, data-driven technology will enable farmers and food & agri companies to make more informed decisions, triggering new smart farming and production techniques, and finding new ways of distribution.
With the vast majority of the smallholder farmers living in Asia, agtech solutions will enable farmers to improve their crop production and access to markets, and in turn improve their incomes.
Against this backdrop, Rabobank, a global leader in food and agri banking, is organizing the “SustainableAg Asia Challenge”. Agtech companies with innovative solutions that promote the integrity in agri-food supply chains in Asia are invited to apply. Solutions could be in the area of farming practices, inclusivity of smallholder farmers, traceability, food safety, data integrity & sharing as well as improving access to markets.