Enhancing Transparency in Agri-Food Supply Chain by Securing IoT-Generated Data with Blockchain

Abstract

Background: The agri-food supply chain is crucial for a nation's sustenance and economic stability but faces challenges such as lack of transparency, inefficiencies, and information asymmetry. Integrating Blockchain Database (BCD) technology, along with Internet of Things (IoT) technologies, offers transformative potential. This combination can enhance the Transparent Physical and Information Flow (PHF), thus improving Transparency in the Agri-food Supply Chain (TASC). Objective: This research examines how integrating BCD affects PHF and, in turn, influences TASC in Bangladesh. It is based on two main hypotheses BCD significantly impacts PHF, and a BCD-enhanced PHF subsequently affects TASC. Methods: An analytical framework was designed to explore the integration of BCD technology and its effect on the transparency of Bangladesh's agri-food supply chain. Data analysis followed five stages: Preliminary Data Examination, Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), and Hypothesis Testing, utilizing IBM SPSS and IBM AMOS. Data were gathered from 400 stakeholders in the Bangladesh agri-food supply chain. Results and Conclusion: The findings support both hypotheses, showing a significant and positive impact of BCD technology on PHF and, consequently, on TASC. The results highlight the essential role of BCD in enhancing supply chain transparency and operational efficiency. Implications of the Research: This study offers empirical evidence on how blockchain technology can effectively address transparency and efficiency challenges in the agri-food supply chain. It highlights the potential of BCD to enhance decision-making, operational efficiency, and consumer trust within the agricultural sector, particularly in developing countries such as Bangladesh. Originality/Value: This research provides fresh insights into how BCD technologies can enhance transparency and efficiency in the agri-food supply chain. By concentrating on the context of Bangladesh, it offers significant implications for policymakers, industry professionals, and researchers, highlighting the transformative potential of blockchain in managing agricultural supply chai