Regional Government joins National Advisory Council to promote digital transformation of agriculture - Communication

Secretaria Regional da Agricultura e Alimentação

The Regional Government has officially joined the Advisory Council for the Promotion of Digitalisation in Agriculture (CCDA), ensuring a truly national representation in this strategic body for the technological modernisation of the sector.

This integration was formalised today, February 25, with the Region's participation in the first CCDA meeting.

The session was chaired by the Minister of Agriculture and Sea, José Manuel Fernandes, and was attended by the Regional Director for Rural Development, João Reis, representing the archipelago.

The main topics for this inaugural meeting focused on defining the Strategy for the Digitalisation of Agriculture, the operating model for the Advisory Council, and the next steps to be implemented in the sector.

CCDA has as its main mission to foster the digital transition in agriculture and livestock farming, promoting task automation and operational efficiency with a view to freeing farmers' time for management activities and optimising the sustainable use of resources.

For the Azorean Government, digital transformation is of paramount importance given the reality of island life.

Geographical dispersion, smaller production scale and logistical challenges require technological solutions capable of reducing costs and improving the resilience of farms.

The adoption of tools such as precision farming, remote monitoring systems, data analysis and automated processes will enable the Region to optimise water and soil use, improve pasture management and enhance food traceability, aligned with European climate targets.

The Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Food emphasised the importance of this step for the archipelago.

"This development represents a strategic opportunity for the Azores to boost competitiveness and ensure more innovative and knowledge-based rural development," stated António Ventura.

With the entry of the Autonomous Region of the Azores into this advisory body, the CCDA reinforces its global commitment to productive efficiency and sustainability throughout the national territory.