Fast internet a requirement
Precision farming as part of CAP
Thursday 12 October the 'Farming 4.0' meeting was held in Brussels. The meeting discussed the integration of precision farming in the European Union (EU). The organizations present are of the opinion that this subject should become part of the common agricultural policy (CAP), in order to stimulate innovation.
A lot of development is needed to make the European Union a world leader in digital agriculture. That was the conclusion of the Farming 4.0 event in Brussels. European policy makers, manufacturers, experts and representatives from the agricultural sector came together to discuss this topic.
EU support is required
Robotic technology, intelligent machines and farm management software are currently making their way into agriculture. As a result, the sector is transformed beyond recognition. However, much support is still needed to realize the potential of digital agriculture. This requires support from the EU.
Integration in CAP
“To reap the full benefits, the EU needs to be supportive and forward-looking policies and encourage companies that innovate to continue to do so,” said Richard Markwell, president of industry association Cema, at the event. “By helping manufacturers , ultimately the farmers and contractors will also be helped." Cema is the organizer of the Farming 4.0 event.
The industry association for machinery manufacturers sees an opportunity in the CAP to support farmers who innovate in precision farming. Technological innovation is taking place too slowly. After 2020, the CAP should be used to fuel digitalisation. Entrepreneurs must be able to invest in precision agriculture that has a proven positive effect on nature.
Lack of fast internet
One of the pain points is the lack of broadband internet in rural areas. Investments are needed throughout the EU to be able to offer a good internet connection. A robust infrastructure is what Cema is asking for to further roll out digitization.
Niels van der Boom
© DCA Market Intelligence. This market information is subject to copyright. It is not permitted to reproduce, distribute, disseminate or make the content available to third parties for compensation, in any form, without the express written permission of DCA Market Intelligence.
