Adoption of Blockchain Technology for Enhanced Traceability of Livestock-Based Products

Abstract

Blockchain has become a modern technology that can enhance the traceability of products and services, which is particularly relevant to agri-food supply chains. This paper reviews studies on blockchain technology applications to the agri-food supply chain system and food industry, and discusses potential adaptation of blockchain technology for livestock-based products with a focus on the ASEAN Region and Thailand. A comprehensive method for reviewing the literature was adopted, and this paper encompasses stakeholders along the supply chain of livestock-based products to understand the prospect of applying blockchain technology to the sector. It was found that while blockchain technology is potentially sustainable and worthy of applications, there remain various limitations and complications toward adoption, such as the low awareness among stakeholders, the weak sector-wide coordination, and the lack of capacity in primary suppliers. Potential benefits and implications of blockchain technology for the food industry have yet to be widely understood, especially in the ASEAN. These findings would call for coordinated support from both the governments and the private sector, especially to raise awareness of the technology, reinforce sector-wide coordination, and develop skills required for adoption.