Understanding Technology Diffusion in the Agricultural Sector

Jose Benjamin Falck-Zepeda

No 94, WIPO Economic Research Working Papers from World Intellectual Property Organization - Economics and Statistics Division

Abstract: The paper introduces the basic concepts related to adoption, diffusion and innovation in the agricultural sector. This paper introduces relevant definitions and issues, examines conceptual models of technology diffusion in agriculture, followed by a description of the process of technology discovery. The paper furthermore explores the channels and mechanisms of diffusion, the factors influencing adoption, the adaptation of technologies to local contexts, empirical studies illustrating innovation and diffusion patterns, the role of government policies and international organizations, and the impact of technology diffusion on agricultural productivity, sustainable development, and food security and livelihoods. The paper then discusses innovation and diffusion of agricultural biotechnologies and precision agricultural technologies by summarizing the experiences and lessons learned from insect resistant and herbicide tolerant maize, insect resistant cotton and precision agriculture technologies in a selected set of countries. The paper draws up policy lessons and recommendations that may be useful to policy and decision makers considering such technologies in their jurisdiction.

Keywords: Innovation; Diffusion; Genetically modified crops; Agriculture; Least Developed Countries (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 O31 O33 Q16 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026-02
New Economics Papers: this item is included in nep-agr and nep-cse
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