Syngenta opens Cropwise platform to developers to close technology gap in farming

SWITZERLAND – Syngenta has opened its AI-powered Cropwise platform to third-party developers, aiming to make digital farming tools more accessible and practical for farmers globally.

The move comes as research shows a growing gap in technology access between large and small farms.

The Cropwise Open Platform allows developers to integrate their innovations into the system, covering over 70 million hectares across 30 countries. Feroz Sheikh, Syngenta’s Chief Information and Digital Officer, explained the platform’s purpose.

“The Cropwise Open Platform represents a significant step forward in bridging the inequity that exists within the adoption of agricultural technology. By creating an open ecosystem that combines our deep agricultural expertise with cutting-edge digital capabilities, we’re empowering third-party developers to build solutions on top of Cropwise. Farmers can choose the apps that best support their needs without sacrificing control over their data.”

The platform gives developers access to Syngenta’s AI and machine learning tools and allows them to offer applications that address real-world farming challenges. Farmers retain control over their own data while benefiting from a growing ecosystem of practical tools.

Closing the digital divide

New IPSOS research, conducted with Syngenta, highlights the widening digital divide in agriculture. Large farms adopt AI and digital tools at a faster rate, while smaller farms risk falling behind.

The study also found that younger farmers embrace technology more readily, while older farmers often view AI as complex or inaccessible, even though they may already use it through drones or imaging systems. The research emphasized that trust, data control, and proof of local results remain key to technology adoption.

Sheikh added, “AI can be the great equalizer in agriculture, but only if it’s accessible, affordable, and trusted. By opening Cropwise developer capabilities, we hope to create a network with farmers at the center and ensure that digital innovation benefits every farmer, not just those with the biggest fields or budgets.”

Syngenta maintains strict data privacy policies. No individual grower data is shared without the owner’s consent, in line with legal requirements.

With this move, Syngenta is reinforcing its commitment to inclusive digital farming. The company believes an open platform will accelerate innovation and make sustainable farming practices more attainable for farmers of all sizes.

The launch also aligns with Syngenta’s ongoing efforts to equip farmers with technology that can address climate pressures, market volatility, and resource constraints.

“The agriculture sector stands at a tipping point. Climate pressures, global market volatility, and the urgent need to promote sustainable farming practices mean that technology adoption can no longer be optional,” Sheikh said, emphasizing the importance of immediate action.

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