In 2023, the total internal R&D personnel in the Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing sectors in the UK was recorded before experiencing a significant decline. The forecasts from 2024 to 2028 indicate a consistent yearly decrease in full-time equivalent R&D personnel. The year-on-year decrease is evident with percentages showcasing a drop of nearly 7.7% from 2025 to 2024, 8.2% from 2026 to 2025, 8.8% from 2027 to 2026, and 9.4% from 2028 to 2027. Over this period, the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) reflects a decreasing trend, averaging a decline of about 8.4% per year.

Future trends to watch:

The impact of technological advancements in agriculture may either exacerbate the need for traditional R&D personnel or shift the skills required.
Government policies and funding changes could alter trends, necessitating adjustments in workforce allocations.
The increasing priority of sustainable practices and environmental impacts could influence R&D focuses and personnel needs.