The recently concluded second edition of Expo AgriTech in Malaga saw the convergence of 8,149 professionals and 412 speakers, all focused on the future directions of the global agricultural sector. Over three insightful days of discussions, demonstrations, and strategic sessions, ten prominent trends emerged, highlighting innovations from carbon monetization to automation, soil health, water innovation, and evolving business models.

1. Carbon Credits: A New Revenue Stream

Currently, only a small fraction of Europe’s 9-10 million farms benefit financially from carbon credits. However, the market shows promising growth as farmers can earn between €40-€90 per hectare for verified carbon sequestration. This income stream is becoming increasingly crucial for profitability.

The main challenge remains the establishment of robust, scalable carbon measurement systems. Notably, large food companies are starting to offer premiums for raw materials demonstrating increased soil carbon levels, which could further integrate carbon markets into mainstream agriculture.

2. Addressing Legacy Issues

With the average age of EU farmers at 57, the industry faces a significant succession crisis. Barriers related to land access, financing, and resources continue to dissuade younger entrants.

Regions are showcasing innovative solutions, such as Murcia’s land bank aimed at increasing farmland availability and the Community of Madrid’s initiative for public tenders to exploit state-owned land. The rising influence of agro-influencers is also making farming careers more attractive.

3. Regulation and Competition Intensify

Economic pressures are expected to shape agricultural practices leading into 2026. Farmers face stringent EU regulatory demands and volatile export markets, along with increased competition from low-cost producers.

Anticipated changes from the new Common Agricultural Policy could include reduced direct payments, which, combined with the nearing ratification of the EU–Mercosur deal, raises concerns regarding market access and agricultural competitiveness.

4. The Rise of Data Spaces

Data spaces—shared digital environments for agricultural data—are becoming critical for the digital transformation of the sector. The major barrier to success is farmer trust and their willingness to share data.

Andalusia has presented plans for an Agri-Food Data Space Demonstration Center, positioning the region as a leader in technology-driven agricultural innovation.

5. Cybersecurity Takes Center Stage

As the agricultural sector increasingly integrates AI, blockchain, and VR technologies, the threat of cyber-attacks on farms and agribusinesses has escalated, making cybersecurity a top priority.

Automation is swiftly expanding, with the International Federation of Robotics predicting sales of 19,500 agricultural robots in 2024, solidifying agriculture’s role as a leader in robotic usage. There are growing appeals for more flexible EU regulations on autonomous machinery to expedite implementation.

6. Soil Health Becomes Essential

As regenerative agriculture gains traction, the quality of soil is recognized as a critical business asset. Technologies such as nanobubbles, microbial solutions, and biochar through pyrolysis are emerging to enhance resilience and carbon stability in soils.

Experts highlight the importance of long-term investments in soil health, despite the associated financial risks.

7. Water Scarcity Fuels Irrigation Innovations

As water stress intensifies, innovations showcased at the event emphasized efficiency in irrigation techniques. Key highlights included systems for hydro infiltration that effectively deliver rainwater to root zones and smart irrigation management tools that enhance decision-making.

8. New Business Models Emerge

Farmers are increasingly adopting direct-to-consumer business models supported by online marketplaces that offer fair prices and higher profit margins.

Innovations such as retailer-led payment schemes provide financial incentives for farmers demonstrating measurable improvements in sustainability and quality.

9. Advancements in Circular Economy Solutions

Digital tools and biotechnologies are driving the shift toward circular economy practices. One notable example from Expo AgriTech is Biosasun, which transforms by-products from olive groves into valuable raw materials for cosmetics and health industries.

10. Support for Cooperatives is Crucial

Cooperatives are increasingly leveraging technology to enhance their competitiveness and sustainability, often in collaboration with research and tech centers. Innovations included monitoring sensors for real-time data and drone technologies for yield predictions.

Nonetheless, calls for stronger public-private partnerships and enhanced digital training persist to overcome cultural barriers and facilitate wide-scale adoption of new technologies.