China Unveils World’s First AI-Powered 20-Storey Vertical Plant Factory in Chengdu

China has introduced the world’s first unmanned 20-storey vertical plant factory in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, marking a major step forward in high-tech agriculture. Developed by the Institute of Urban Agriculture under the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, the facility leverages advanced artificial intelligence systems to fully automate the cultivation process, including lighting, irrigation, and nutrient delivery.

The vertical farm is designed to produce over 50 tons of vegetables annually, equivalent to the yield of approximately 4 hectares of traditional farmland. Using specially designed light formulas and vertical irrigation methods, the system ensures consistent crop growth, with lettuce harvested roughly every 35 days. This allows the facility to achieve more than 10 harvest cycles per year, significantly boosting productivity.

Because the factory operates independently of weather and soil conditions, it represents a scalable solution for food production in diverse environments, including urban centers, deserts, and areas with poor agricultural land. The integration of intelligent farming technology and vertical architecture maximizes land use efficiency and offers a sustainable model for future food systems in a world facing population growth and climate uncertainty.