Influential barriers to blockchain technology implementation in agri-food supply chain

Blockchain technology offers undeniable benefits of enhanced transparency, reliability, and information accuracy to agri-food supply chains. Currently, the implementation of this technology has associated challenges. This paper explores the influential barriers to implementing blockchain technology (BCT) in the agri-food supply chain (AFSC). An integrated literature review approach and expert opinions were employed to explore the influential barriers. The barriers were modelled using the hybrid fuzzy-based decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (Fuzzy-DEMATEL) approach to evaluate the interrelationship and classify them into cause-and-effect groups. As an outcome, a comprehensive framework was proposed revealing the unfamiliarity with technology, high investment cost, lack of regulations, technological infeasibility, and scalability as key influential barriers. This study will help the decision-makers to focus on influential barriers and identify the roadmap towards blockchain implementation.