The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) hosted the Global Conference on Smart Farming: Leveraging Data and Technology for Sustainable Agrifood Systems from 1–3 July 2026 at FAO Headquarters in Rome, Italy, with hybrid participation available online. The conference brought together global stakeholders to explore how digital technologies and innovation can transform agriculture while supporting sustainable agrifood systems.
About the Conference
The three-day event focused on scaling smart farming systems by showcasing practical innovations that promote:
- Sustainable agriculture
- Digital transformation
- Youth entrepreneurship
- Women’s entrepreneurship
- Digital skills development
- Technology-driven farm management
The conference also identified priorities for policy, collaboration, and investment to help scale context-adapted solutions, particularly for small-scale farmers.
What Is Smart Farming?
Within the conference, smart farming refers to improving agrifood production systems through sustainable farming practices supported by modern technologies.
These technologies include:
- Data-driven decision-making
- Digital technologies
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Internet of Things (IoT)
- Precision agriculture tools
These solutions help optimize the use of:
- Water
- Fertilizers
- Pesticides
- Energy
- Agricultural inputs
while strengthening:
- Soil health
- Land management
- Ecosystem sustainability
Conference Objectives
The conference aimed to:
- Promote sustainable agrifood production systems.
- Scale smart farming solutions worldwide.
- Encourage innovation for small-scale farmers.
- Strengthen collaboration among governments, researchers, development partners, and the private sector.
- Support youth and women through entrepreneurship and digital skills.
- Identify policy and investment priorities for technology adoption in agriculture.
Participants
The conference brought together representatives from around the world, including:
- FAO Member States
- Policymakers
- Development partners
- Private sector organizations
- Universities and research institutions
- Civil society organizations
- Youth organizations
- Farmers’ organizations
Conference Programme Highlights
Day 1 – Opening and Ministerial Segment
Highlights included:
- Exhibition inauguration
- Opening ceremony
- Ministerial segment
- Side event on nuclear techniques for smart farming
- Plenary discussions on science, data, and digital innovation
- Roundtable on governance for inclusive and sustainable smart farming
Day 2 – Deep-Dive Sessions
Participants explored specialized topics related to digital agriculture, innovation, and sustainable farming practices.
Day 3 – Closing Session
The conference concluded with discussions on future priorities and collaborative actions to advance smart farming globally.
FAO Smart Farming Initiatives
The conference also highlighted FAO’s broader work on smart farming through:
- Projects and digital tools
- Educational videos
- Success stories
- Technical publications
- Innovation initiatives
Participants were encouraged to explore FAO resources supporting agricultural transformation and sustainable food systems.
Related Topics
The event featured collaboration across several FAO divisions, including:
- Plant Production and Protection Division
- Land and Water Division
- Innovation at FAO
The conference also highlighted stories and initiatives demonstrating how technology can improve agricultural productivity while protecting natural resources.
Why the Conference Matters
Smart farming is increasingly important as agriculture faces growing challenges related to climate change, resource management, food security, and environmental sustainability. By combining digital technologies, artificial intelligence, and precision agriculture, stakeholders can improve farm productivity while using resources more efficiently and protecting ecosystems.
The FAO Global Conference on Smart Farming served as a platform for governments, researchers, farmers, and industry leaders to exchange knowledge, strengthen partnerships, and promote scalable innovations that support resilient and sustainable agrifood systems worldwide.
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