FAO summit to seek wider access for farm mechanization in Asia-Pacific

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Agriculture (DA) and the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) will convene a summit this month seeking to provide wider access to affordable farm technologies, financing and services to farmers in Asia-Pacific.

The two organizations will convene the first Asia-Pacific Conference on Sustainable Agricultural Mechanization (APSAM), from Nov. 23 to 26.

It will bring together governments, agribusinesses, technology providers and development partners in Manila.

The summit will focus on translating technological innovations into real-world applications, particularly for smallholder farmers who often lack the resources to modernize their operations.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said better technologies would help make more productive farms and improve rural livelihoods.

“Countries that have modernized their agriculture have shown that appropriate mechanization can do more than speed up farm work. It can reduce the physical burden on aging farmers, address labor shortages, improve yields, reduce post-harvest losses and help farming households earn better incomes,” Tiu Laurel said.

He noted that machinery must be suited to local farming conditions and the financial capacity of their intended users.

“Technology must be affordable, accessible and suited to the size of our farms and the conditions our farmers face. Mechanization must work for farmers, not create another financial burden for them,” he added.

The conference will also examine policy and institutional gaps, financing mechanisms, capacity development and business models that could support small-scale farmers in adopting appropriate technologies.

The event will also highlight the participation of women and young people, including their roles as technology users, developers, entrepreneurs, researchers and innovators.

Meanwhile, participants will have opportunities to share experiences and explore potential technology and business partnerships.

The event will also highlight the contributions of women and youth as technology users, developers, entrepreneurs, researchers and innovators.