The objective of this paper is to identify some of the salient characteristics of agriculture in
the new millennium. The driving force behind economic change is technology and
information, and information and knowledge will replace land, labour and capital as the
sources of wealth in agriculture. The resultant cognitive-technical complex in farm
production will lead to the true industrialisation of farming and thus placing the traditional
family farmer at a distinct disadvantage. Technology developments combined with inverse
population growth and ageing population, will not only negate Malthusian visions, but also
lead to downward pressure on farm commodity prices, and thus increase the adoption rates of
new technology. However, in reaction to the increasingly complex nature of modern society a
demand is developing for terroir-based products. This range of products may not only
significantly change some characteristics of agriculture, but also provide a new set of
opportunities for farmers. Agricultural policy and development strategies should also be
reconsidered in the light of this new environment
