Farmer views on artificial intelligence differ across two countries
Artificial intelligence (AI) and data-driven technologies are becoming increasingly important in agriculture. These tools are being used for precision farming, automation, robotics, predictive analytics, and farm management support.
They are often promoted as solutions that can improve productivity, reduce labor demands, manage risk, and support decision-making. Not surprisingly, recent surveys show that farmers in different countries view these technologies in different ways.
Researchers compared responses from two producer sentiment surveys conducted in 2026. One survey involved 400 agricultural producers in the United States through the Purdue University–CME Group Ag Economy Barometer. The second surveyed 402 producers in Argentina through the Austral University Ag Barometer. Both surveys asked farmers about the main benefit they associate with AI and other data-driven tools.
The results revealed notable differences between the two countries. In the United States, 23% of producers identified increased production as the main benefit of AI, while 14% pointed to reduced labor needs and 11% cited reduced risk or uncertainty. However, the largest group, representing 52% of respondents, reported that AI offered no meaningful benefit to their operations.
In Argentina, perceptions were generally more positive. Increased production accounted for 37% of responses, making it the most commonly recognized advantage. Reduced risk and uncertainty followed at 28%, while 14% of respondents highlighted labor savings. Only 21% of Argentine producers stated that AI provided no meaningful benefit.
The findings suggest that Argentine farmers are more likely to view AI and data-driven technologies as useful tools for improving production and managing farm risks. In contrast, many U.S. producers remain cautious about adopting these technologies or are unconvinced of their value.
Additional survey findings provide further insight into this difference. Many U.S. farmers indicated that recommendations generated by data-driven tools can be difficult to follow and integrate into daily farm management. This suggests that ease of use and practical application are important factors affecting adoption.
Researchers also noted broader differences in producer sentiment. Argentine farmers generally expressed stronger optimism about the future of agriculture, crop production, and farmland values. While the surveys do not directly explain attitudes toward AI, this positive outlook may influence how producers evaluate new technologies.
Other factors may also play a role. Trust in technology, confidence in AI-generated recommendations, and concerns about data collection and privacy could influence adoption decisions. Farmers often need clear, reliable, and easy-to-use information before incorporating new tools into important management decisions.
Despite differing opinions, the surveys highlight a shared challenge for the agricultural sector. Technology developers and agricultural organizations must ensure AI tools provide practical, reliable, and relevant benefits that farmers can easily incorporate into everyday operations.
As AI continues to evolve, its future success in agriculture will depend on meeting the real-world needs of producers.
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