Generative artificial intelligence is becoming a sought-after tool in the agricultural sector.

In the Global Farmer Insights 2026 report published on Tuesday, McKinsey & Co notes a sharp increase in interest in artificial intelligence technologies. To date, approximately 17 percent of farmers use generative AI tools to solve production tasks, making this technology one of the fastest-growing in the industry.

McKinsey senior partner David Fiocco explains that AI adoption is occurring after a long downturn caused by volatility and high prices for resources, including fertilizer, equipment, land, labor, and financing. Since the peak of profitability in 2021–2022, farmers have faced policy uncertainty, capricious weather, and staff shortages, which have complicated daily management decisions. AI is being implemented particularly quickly in the countries of the Americas, where the technology has significantly facilitated obtaining prompt agronomic advice.

Against the backdrop of the growing popularity of AI, other technological solutions, such as robotics, electric machinery, and software for sustainability, still have minimal penetration in farms. The study, based on a survey of 5,500 farmers from 10 countries conducted from April to July, also revealed that farmers' intention to spend funds in the current year has decreased by 24 percentage points. More than a third of agricultural producers are inclined to save primarily on fertilizer when incomes decline.

Nevertheless, signs of recovery are being observed in the industry: an increase in commodity prices and a rise in the number of equipment orders are noted. Another promising direction is biological agents for plant protection and growth stimulation — these are already used by more than half of farmers engaged in specialized crops.