AGRIST Showcases AI Harvesting Robot at 'Hiroshima AI Process' Ministerial Meeting with Microsoft Japan

AGRIST Inc. (Headquarters: Shintomi-cho, Miyazaki Prefecture; hereafter AGRIST), a leader in agricultural DX driven by AI and robotics, participated in the 'Hiroshima AI Process Friends Group 2nd In-Person Meeting' held in Tokyo on March 15, 2026. The exhibition was supported by Microsoft Japan Co., Ltd. and Ashirase Inc.

During the event, AGRIST introduced its AI-powered automatic harvesting robot 'Q' and an integrated AI application to participants, including ministerial-level officials from various countries and corporate executives. AGRIST highlighted its contribution to food security as a practical example of 'AI for Good' originating from Japan.

### Exhibition with Microsoft Japan and Ashirase

This exhibition was realized with the support of Microsoft Japan, based on the 'AI for Good' philosophy promoted globally by Microsoft Corporation. AGRIST participated as a Japanese startup tackling social issues through AI solutions.

### Background of Collaboration

AGRIST has been working with Microsoft Japan, supported by the Microsoft AI Co-Innovation Lab KOBE, to develop the yield prediction AI 'AGRIST Ai'—utilizing over 50,000 agricultural big data points—and to verify physical AI. By building advanced MLOps (Machine Learning Operations) utilizing Azure Machine Learning, the system can adapt flexibly to environmental changes.

As international AI governance grows in importance, AGRIST has adopted Microsoft Azure for its robust security. Furthermore, by utilizing 'Carbon optimization,' the company reduced cloud-related emissions during development by approximately 40%. This serves as a model case for the international community, balancing advanced intelligence with environmental sustainability.

### Exhibition Highlights

The venue featured a live demonstration of the 'Q' automatic harvesting robot and its linked AI application. The 'Q' robot moves on rails installed between furrows. Its uniquely developed harvesting hand is equipped with sensors to prevent accidental harvesting and cameras, allowing the AI to determine the optimal size and timing for harvest.

Many government officials expressed high interest in how these technologies could solve labor shortages in agriculture and improve harvesting efficiency.

### From Japan to Global Agricultural Infrastructure

AGRIST is accelerating the construction of 'agricultural infrastructure' centered on automatic harvesting robots. Moving forward, the company will expand the 'sustainable agricultural model' cultivated in Japan to various parts of the world, directly contributing to food self-sufficiency and economic development. As a deep tech company from Japan, AGRIST is committed to achieving sustainable agriculture that lasts for the next 100 years.

### About the Hiroshima AI Process

Launched at the G7 Hiroshima Summit in May 2023, the 'Hiroshima AI Process' is a framework aimed at creating international rules for rapidly spreading generative AI. It strengthens cooperation with diverse partners worldwide, including developing nations, corporations, and research institutions beyond the G7, to accelerate the formation of international governance.