Japan to promote AI-powered agriculture in Hokkaido with special zones
In the special zones, autonomous tractors will be allowed to travel on public roads without a driver when moving in a convoy.
The Japanese government has announced plans to designate 19 municipalities in the Tokachi region of Hokkaido as national strategic special zones to promote the use of AI-powered agriculture. This initiative aims to streamline regulations for implementing autonomous technologies such as robot tractors and drone pesticide spraying.
Currently, such autonomous vehicles require a driver on public roads, but the special zones will permit them to travel without a driver when operating in convoys with manned vehicles. The government also intends to simplify the development of necessary communication infrastructure for uncrewed operations. Hokkaido's Tokachi region, known for its large-scale farms, is considered an ideal location for this demonstration, with hopes that it will attract technology companies to the agricultural sector and potentially transform farming practices nationwide.
Mayor Yosuke Ueno of Obihiro expressed appreciation for the recognition, stating that the region's suitability for showcasing AI agriculture is well-known. A Cabinet Office survey and demonstration project are set to commence later this month, with a symposium scheduled for November in Obihiro.
Written by urgent.news from Japan Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
