Deere sees pandemic speeding up connectivity on Brazilian farms

A John Deere combine harvester is seen harvesting winter wheat in a field near Kimpton, Britain. A lack of viable communications networks in rural areas has been a barrier to Brazilian growers tapping into databases and platforms that can help them lift yields and cut costs. — Reuters

The pandemic is accelerating a digital revolution in agricultural powerhouse Brazil by forcing farmers to buy equipment and get assistance online, according to Deere & Co.

Lockdowns and social distancing are preventing the traditional face-to-face interaction between farmers and providers at dealerships and rural fairs, with both parties reverting to video conferencing or specialised applications.