Digitalization and Blockchain Integration in Agri-Food Supply Chains: Towards a Resilient, Circular, and Sustainable Future

Sorina-Geanina Stanescu, Constantin Aurelian Ionescu (), Maria Cristina Ștefan, Luiza Ionescu, Georgiana-Tatiana Bondac and Andrei Mihai Cristea
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Sorina-Geanina Stanescu: Institute of Multidisciplinary Research for Science and Technology, Valahia University of Targoviste, 130004 Targoviste, Romania
Constantin Aurelian Ionescu: Faculty of Economics, Valahia University of Targoviste, 130004 Targoviste, Romania
Maria Cristina Ștefan: Faculty of Economics, Valahia University of Targoviste, 130004 Targoviste, Romania
Luiza Ionescu: Faculty of Economics, Valahia University of Targoviste, 130004 Targoviste, Romania
Georgiana-Tatiana Bondac: Faculty of Economics, Valahia University of Targoviste, 130004 Targoviste, Romania
Andrei Mihai Cristea: Faculty of Economics, Hyperion University of Bucharest, 030615 Bucharest, Romania

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 20, 1-27

Abstract: The agri-food sector is currently undergoing a significant digital transformation, driven by climate change, frequent supply chain disruptions, and increasing demand for transparency and food safety. This article, based on a systematic review of 113 recent studies (in line with the PRISMA guidelines), delves into how emerging digital technologies, particularly blockchain, are reshaping agri-food supply chains towards sustainability, a circular economy, and complete product traceability from production to the final consumer. The paper identifies the main enabling factors, barriers, and implementation models of blockchain and other technologies associated with Industry 4.0 (IoT, artificial intelligence, smart contracts), highlighting their role in increasing the resilience of supply chains, optimising quality control, and sustainable resource management. A key contribution of the study is the introduction of the CTSAF (Converging Technologies for Sustainable Agri-Food Chains) conceptual framework, which provides practical implications for policymakers and organisations, enabling them to make informed decisions. The results also provide valuable insights for future research, supporting the transition to a more transparent, resilient, and sustainable global food system.

Keywords: blockchain; circular economy; traceability; digitization; food safety; food chain (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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