Digital technology will transform food production in Middle East and beyond, say experts

Digital technology will transform food production in Middle East and beyond, say experts

Abu Dhabi, UAE – An increased use of innovative digital technologies could help to solve the world’s ongoing food security crisis, according to policymakers and business leaders set to meet in Abu Dhabi later this month.

From big data usage to mitigate the effects of the pandemic on food systems and improve logistics to geospatial systems that predict locust feeding patterns, the World Union of Wholesale Markets (WUWM) Conference in Abu Dhabi will examine a range of new innovations that could bring game-changing tools to global food markets.

The fresh food sector is among the less penetrated sectors in terms of digitalisation and application of digital technology. Nevertheless, many studies have shown that technology can help transform the global food production system and mitigate its impact on the climate and environment.

A special innovation panel will address how technology can help address challenges in the sector. By bringing together experts from a range of key organisations, including start-ups deploying artificial intelligence to manage food supply chains, such as SILAL, a leading UAE agritech company; EAT, a science-based global platform for food system transformation; and moderated by economic consultant Roland Berger Middle East, the panel will examine the potential of emerging technologies seen for