Artificial Intelligence-Based Beef Cattle Farming Transformation: A Systematic Literature Review of Opportunities, Constraints, and Future Development Directions

Abstract

Smallholder beef cattle farming faces various challenges, including market access and limited digital literacy. This systematic literature review aims to identify opportunities for developing transformational smallholder beef cattle farming based on artificial intelligence and digital technology. A literature search was conducted in the Scopus database following the PRISMA process. Of the 605 initial articles, after limiting publication years to 2021–2026, English language, and open access, 451 articles were selected for screening. After title and abstract screening, 43 articles were included in the final synthesis, consisting of 23 core articles and 20 supporting articles. The review results indicate that technologies such as machine learning, the Internet of Things, sensors, smart collars, computer vision, remote sensing, blockchain, and decision support systems have the potential to improve productivity, feed efficiency, livestock health, and sustainability. However, their adoption remains limited by infrastructure, digital literacy, and institutional support. Therefore, AI development needs to be directed toward technologies that are affordable, simple, and focused on smallholder farmers.