Will traditional farmers be left behind by agri-tech?

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Traditional Farmers' Concerns Regarding Agri-Tech Advancements in Singapore

The focus on high-tech agricultural innovation in Singapore has raised concerns among traditional farmers that they may be overlooked, despite their practical experience. Egg farmer William Ho, aged 53, has voiced his opinion that the government is disproportionately investing in new agri-tech companies that lack a proven history of success. He suggests that these resources could be better allocated to supporting established, practical farmers who possess a deeper understanding of real-world agricultural operations.
Skepticism Towards Unproven Agri-Tech Ventures

William Ho's perspective highlights a key point of contention: the perceived risk associated with investing heavily in nascent agri-tech firms. He points to instances where such ventures have not yielded the expected results, leading him to question the rationale behind prioritizing them over experienced traditional farmers. Ho's plea is for greater recognition and financial backing for those who have long been engaged in conventional farming, arguing that their methods are more grounded and reliable in the current agricultural landscape.
The Affordability Challenge of High-Tech Produce

Beyond the investment debate, Professor Paul Teng has raised a critical issue concerning the economic viability of technologically advanced farming outputs. He notes that the incorporation of expensive inputs, such as cutting-edge technology, can inevitably drive up the production costs of urban farm products. This increase in cost may render these goods unaffordable for a significant portion of the consumer base, potentially limiting their market reach and overall impact on food security goals.
Government's "30-by-30" Initiative and Investment Landscape

Singapore's "30-by-30" plan aims to increase local food production to 30% by 2030, a goal that necessitates innovative farming solutions due to limited land availability. The government has allocated substantial funds, including SGD$144 million for food-related research and development and SGD$63 million for agriculture firms to adopt technology. This investment landscape, while fostering growth in urban and vertical farming, has inadvertently amplified the concerns of traditional farmers about their place within this evolving ecosystem.

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Will traditional farmers be left behind by agri-tech?

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