A data-driven genomics platform in New Zealand is applying high-throughput sequencing, bioinformatics and precision analytics to transform viticulture – and pave the way for agriculture-as-a-digital-service.
MGI Tech Co., Ltd. (MGI) has teamed up with Lincoln University in Canterbury to deliver a data-centric model for agriculture, applying next-generation sequencing and bioinformatics to transform New Zealand’s US$2.1 billion wine export industry.
The initiative represents a shift from manual, chemical-intensive crop management to digital platforms powered by genomics, where sequencing becomes a core data service underpinning decisions across viticulture and beyond.
Sequencing as digital infrastructure
Lincoln University has deployed the MGI DNBSEQ-G400, a high-throughput genome sequencer capable of processing over 50,000 grapevine samples annually. In comparison, legacy lab methods analysed only a few hundred samples per year. This 100x capacity increase is powered by parallelised sequencing, automation and advanced bioinformatics pipelines.
“The introduction of MGI sequencing tools has really helped democratise sequencing for small teams like myself,” said Associate Professor Christopher Winefield, Lincoln University. “The cost of that sequencing is highly competitive. We’re now looking to process up to 50,000 samples a year – we simply couldn’t do that without MGI’s support.”
The platform also enables real-time sequencing of pathogens such as powdery mildew and mealybug, generating live data streams for integration into farm management systems. This turns sequencing into a digital service layer that supports evidence-based, precision interventions rather than blanket chemical spraying.
From raw DNA to actionable data
Each sequencing run generates vast genomic datasets that must be processed, analysed and translated into insights. By combining MGI’s sequencing output with bioinformatics workflows, researchers can map genetic diversity, identify disease-resistant traits and build predictive models for environmental stress tolerance.
This data-led approach repositions agriculture as a digital enterprise. Instead of relying on seasonal spraying schedules, vineyard operators gain dashboards of genomic intelligence, allowing them to optimise interventions and reduce chemical use by up to 80% in some cases.
“This is a powerful example of how cutting-edge technology supports the future of agriculture,” said Dr Bicheng Yang, Director of MGI Australia. “By helping researchers uncover the genetic drivers of disease resistance, we’re enabling the industry to move away from chemical dependency and toward natural plant resilience.”
Sequencing-as-a-service model
The Lincoln-MGI collaboration is also evolving into a commercial venture built around sequencing-as-a-service. Winefield and his team are developing a startup to deliver affordable genomic testing across viticulture, horticulture and dairy farming, using cloud-enabled sequencing pipelines to scale access.
“This is about getting world-class science into farmers’ hands,” said Winefield. “Our goal is to process a million samples annually at launch and grow to 10 million within five years.”
By abstracting sequencing into a service, the model aligns with broader trends in IT infrastructure – making genomics accessible as a utility for end-users rather than a high-cost research capability.
Toward global agriculture-as-a-service
New Zealand’s unique microclimates and digital science infrastructure make it a proving ground for agriculture-as-a-service. If successful, the genomics model could be exported globally, supporting industries from viticulture to livestock.
“New Zealand may never feed the world by volume,” said Winefield, “but we can lead through better science. Exporting our genomic insights, tools and resilient plant stock could transform productivity and environmental outcomes for global agriculture.”
