The Future of Agri-Tech: Upcoming Events and Significant Developments in the UK

Editor’s Note: AgFunder is hosting an industry insights breakfast in London next month for corporate, family office, and institutional investors. Apply to attend here.

Upcoming Events in London

All eyes are on London next month as the World Agri-Tech Innovation Summit and Future Food-Tech Summits return to the city. These events are a prime opportunity to stay informed about the latest advancements in UK food and agriculture policies, as well as innovative technology initiatives.

Government Initiatives and Developments

Food- and agriculture-related announcements from the UK government have intensified since the Labour Party took office in July 2024. The party promised to reinforce British farming, boost sustainable food production, and tackle the obesity epidemic as part of its broader “plan for change.”

However, these developments arrive amid a challenging funding landscape for agrifood startups and a rising cost-of-living crisis that continues to elevate food prices.

Key Topics for Discussion

Issues such as alternative protein approvals, robotics, international trade, and land use will be at the forefront of discussions during the World Agri-Tech Innovation Summit.

Timeline of Agrifood Developments

October 2024

• The UK government launches the Regulatory Innovation Office (RIO) aimed at expediting approval timelines and updating regulations. RIO will concentrate on four technologies including engineering biology and AI.
• The UK Food Standards Agency (FSA) receives £1.6 million ($2.1 million) to develop a regulatory sandbox for cell-cultivated products.

January 2025

• Farm reforms are announced as part of the Labour government’s Plan for Change, focusing on essential infrastructure, fairer supply chains, and increased protections for British produce.
• A national conversation is launched for land use management, aiming to balance agricultural needs with housing and energy production requirements.

February 2025

• The government states it will not sign trade deals that might compromise UK food standards.

March 2025

• Defra announces £5 billion ($6.7 billion) for sustainable farming and nature recovery.

April 2025

• The government allocates £45.6 million ($61 million) in funding for advanced farm technologies focusing on emissions and food security.

May 2025

• New farmtech innovation competitions open under the Farming Innovation Programme.
• The UK-EU trade reset deal aims to lower food costs for British consumers.

June 2025

• Defra launches a new £5 million round of Farming Innovation Investor Partnerships.
• The UK government unveils the Life Sciences Plan as part of its Modern Industrial Strategy.

July 2025

• Steve Bates OBE is appointed Executive Chair of the Office for Life Sciences.
• The historic UK-India trade deal is signed, removing tariffs on Indian agricultural exports.

August 2025

• The UK government allocates a record £150 million in farm improvement grants, promoting sustainable farming practices.
• A health innovation programme worth “up to £85 million” is announced in partnership with pharmaceutical giant Lilly.

Conclusion

The unfolding events in London’s agri-tech sphere signify a pivotal moment for the UK’s food and agriculture sectors. With strategic investments and regulatory support, the stage is set for innovative solutions to address pressing challenges in food security and sustainability.