Blockchain Technology for Traceability and Transparency in the Onion Industry of the Philippines

Blockchain Technology for Traceability and Transparency in the Onion Industry of the Philippines
  IJETT-book-cover           
  
© 2023 by IJETT Journal
Volume-71 Issue-9
Year of Publication : 2023
Author : Kenneth L. Armas, Feliciana P. Jacoba, Marilene C. Hipolito
DOI : 10.14445/22315381/IJETT-V71I9P215

How to Cite?

Kenneth L. Armas, Feliciana P. Jacoba, Marilene C. Hipolito, "Blockchain Technology for Traceability and Transparency in the Onion Industry of the Philippines," International Journal of Engineering Trends and Technology, vol. 71, no. 9, pp. 162-169, 2023. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/22315381/IJETT-V71I9P215

Abstract
The global food supply chain has various obstacles, such as guaranteeing food safety, combatting fraud, and satisfying consumer needs for openness and sustainability. Traceability and openness have emerged as essential components for accomplishing these objectives. Traceability and transparency concerns harm customer trust and the livelihood of smallholder farmers in the Philippines onion sector. This study investigates the possibility of blockchain technology as a solution to these issues. This research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to evaluate the current traceability and transparency measures in the onion business. The results indicate that stakeholders throughout the sector consider the present methods less than sufficient, with perceptions varying within stakeholder groups. These results are consistent with the literature on the global agri-food supply chain that emphasizes the lack of openness. In order to assess the potential effect of blockchain technology, a meta-analysis of current studies demonstrates its potential for boosting traceability and transparency in diverse agricultural situations. The blockchain's unique characteristics, like decentralization and immutability, can potentially transform the onion business. For effective adoption, however, certain obstacles, such as scalability concerns and regulatory compliance, must be solved. This research presents strategic approaches to overcome identified hurdles based on their identification. Enhancing technology infrastructure, resolving regulatory compliance, and increasing stakeholder involvement are the focal points of the strategies. To overcome these obstacles and realize the revolutionary potential of blockchain technology, collaboration among industry participants, governments, and technology suppliers is crucial. This research adds to the knowledge of adopting blockchain technology in the agriculture sector. It serves as a helpful case study for nations wishing to harness blockchain technology in their agricultural businesses. By adopting these tactics, the onion sector may place itself at the forefront of technical innovations, supporting sustainable growth and a transparent and efficient supply chain.

Keywords
Agricultural sustainability, Agricultural engineering, Blockchain technology, Supply chain management, Supply chain transparency and traceability.

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