Reasons for optimism shine through at OFC 2026

One message rang out clearly across every session and conversation: change is not optional. As highlighted in the OFC 2026 Report: UK Agriculture: Grasping the Opportunities, we must look forward, not back. The future of farming demands an opportunity mindset, one that replaces anxiety with ambition and action.

Policy signals: Greater clarity, stronger partnership

Encouragingly, the UK Government used the conference to announce several policy updates designed to provide greater certainty for farmers:

• Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) will reopen in two stages in 2026. The first window in June will prioritise smaller farms and those without existing agreements, followed by a wider opening in September
• A new Farming and Food Partnership Board will give farmers a direct voice in shaping policy, a vital step towards practical, on-the-ground solutions
• The Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) programme has been extended for a further three years with additional funding
• The inheritance tax threshold for Agricultural Property Relief has risen from £1 million to £2.5m, signalling that government is listening to the sector’s long-standing concerns
• A new Farmer Collaboration Fund of £30 million pounds, over three years, with the ambition to make it easier for farmers to share knowledge with each other. To make best practice common practice

These announcements matter. Stability and clarity are essential if we want farmers to invest, innovate and plan for the long term.

Data, technology and smarter decision-making

Another standout theme was the power of data as a strategic asset. From AI and robotics to sensors and precision tools, technology is transforming what’s possible on farms.

But technology alone isn’t the answer it’s the combination of smart tools and expert advice that unlocks real value.

Used well, data enables better decision-making, improves efficiency, reduces risk and supports more sustainable outcomes. This is where organisations such as TIAH play a crucial role, helping farmers turn insight into impact.

People and collaboration: Our greatest assets

Resilience doesn’t happen in isolation. Speaker after speaker emphasised the importance of collaboration across the supply chain: farmers, scientists, advisers and policymakers working together for shared benefit.

Equally important is investment in people and skills, especially for the next generation of farmers. Mentoring, training and leadership development will define the future of the industry. At TIAH, we are committed to nurturing that next wave of talent.

Profit and planet: Not a trade-off

Perhaps most importantly, the conference reinforced a truth we strongly believe in: profitability and environmental responsibility go hand in hand.

These are not competing priorities; they are the foundations of a successful farming business.

From regenerative dairy systems to diversification opportunities such as hazelnut farming, farmers are proving that innovation drives commercial resilience and environmental gains.

Looking ahead

The Oxford Union Debate posed a provocative question: “This house believes that in the next 90 years farming will become a one-day-a-week job.”

While opinions differed, the discussion highlighted how automation and evolving work patterns could reshape our industry. What’s clear is this: farming is changing, but its importance has never been greater.

At TIAH, we remain focused on equipping farmers with the knowledge, skills and confidence they need to thrive. The future of agriculture is bold, data-driven, collaborative and sustainable, and I came away from Oxford more optimistic than ever about what lies ahead.

Together, we'll build a future that's confident, profitable and resilient.