“By integrating emerging technologies into our business we are driving greater efficiencies, enhancing the sustainability of our supply chains and offering more value to our customers.”

Global agri-business Olam International has signed an agreement with Canadian technology company Canvass Analytics to use its artificial intelligence (AI) to explore ways of meeting the growing demand for food, feed, fibre and fuel globally.

With more than 22,000 customers worldwide, Olam is engaged in sourcing agricultural ingredients and raw materials in the food and beverage industries.

Olam International Grains managing director and CEO KC Suresh said: “Artificial Intelligence is a powerful tool to help re-imagine global agriculture.

“The insights offered by data and analytics provide opportunities to transform the way we operate and to find new ways to address challenges across the agricultural value chains.

Canvass is funded by Google’s AI-fund Gradient Ventures, and offers automated AI-powered analytics to help its customers improve quality, lower production costs and reduce energy consumption.

Canvass Analytics CEO Humera Malik said: “We are excited to be working with one of the world’s leaders in food and agriculture to help them transform the way food is sourced, produced and supplied.

“The potential for Artificial Intelligence in the food and agricultural sector goes beyond operational improvements and the world’s population can benefit from better food quality, improved nutrition and sustainable agriculture that protects the environment.”

Olam operates across the value chain in 66 countries and supplies various products across 18 platforms.