Analysis of the Applicability of Cutting-Edge Technologies to Enhance Sustainable Agriculture in ASEAN

This study examines the applicability of cutting-edge digital agricultural technologies to support sustainable agriculture in ASEAN, with a focus on opportunities for ASEAN–Japan technology co-operation. Using a qualitative approach, the study covers all ASEAN Member States (AMS) through a desktop review, complemented by an Indonesia case study based on semi-structured interviews with government representatives, technology providers, agribusiness actors, and farmers to capture practical insights. The findings reveal substantial differences in the maturity of digital agriculture across AMS, reflecting variations in infrastructure, digital literacy, farming systems, and ecosystem readiness. While Japanese technologies are highly advanced, their applicability in ASEAN depends on the needs and conditions of farmers in the region. The study concludes that successful digitalisation requires approaches tailored to local conditions, including adapting and co-developing technologies, ensuring affordability, strengthening infrastructure and skills, fostering multi-stakeholder collaboration, and developing sustainable business models, rather than relying on direct technology transfer alone.