Digital Technologies Transforming the Agri-Food Value Chain in the Era of Agriculture 4.0
摘要
Agriculture 4.0 represents a profound transformation of the agri-food value chain, driven by digital technologies such as IoT, artificial intelligence, blockchain, and remote sensing. These tools go far beyond simply modernizing existing processes—they enable new, data-driven production models rooted in connectivity, predictive analytics, and real-time decision-making. This shift improves the efficiency of natural resource management, enhances responsiveness to environmental and market changes, reduces waste, and increases traceability, promoting greater transparency and resilience throughout the sector. However, the widespread adoption of these technologies still faces challenges like limited digital infrastructure, interoperability issues, a shortage of skilled professionals, concerns over data reliability, and high implementation costs. These barriers risk concentrating the benefits of Agriculture 4.0 among large or digitally advanced players, potentially deepening inequalities. Considering this context, this chapter seeks to examine the role of digital technologies in transforming the agri-food value chain within the framework of Agriculture 4.0, emphasizing their practical applications across different stages of the sector. It also explores the key dimensions of this transformation and the challenges to be overcome to unlock its full potential. Finally, it highlights how Agriculture 4.0 supports Sustainable Development Goal 9 (SDG 9) by fostering inclusive innovation, resilient infrastructure, and sustainable industrialization.