Application of blockchain technology in the agri-food system: a systematic bibliometric visualization analysis and policy imperatives

Purpose - Blockchain technology (BCT), since its emergence touted to be disruptive, is gaining momentum, especially in the agri-food system owing to its multiple benefits. Design/methodology/approach - The authors attempted to conduct a systematic bibliometric visualization analysis of the BCT in the agri-food system. The analysis investigated the list of countries and institutions that conducted research on BCT in agriculture, growth trend analysis in research publications, bibliographic coupling of journals using the VOSviewer tool, and the countries and institutions researching BCT. Findings - The authors discovered that China, the USA and India were the highly active countries in BCT research and publication. However, India has only limited research collaboration with other countries as compared to China and the USA. The keyword analysis indicates the role of BCT in order to maintain the transparency of the supply chain by means of protecting the privacy of the personal data of the stakeholders. Research limitations/implications - More research related to the implementation of BCT in livestock, fishery and agro-forestry sector is recommended. Social implications - The case examined is of particular interest as it is concerned with efficient supply chain management. Originality/value - This study adds value and evidence to the scope and benefits of BCT by providing a comprehensive literature review, with a special focus on the opportunities and challenges concerned with implementation of BCT in the Indian agri-food system. Highlights - Blockchain technology (BCT) – a promising tool to resolve issues in agriculture supply chain.BCT ensures transparency and protection of information along the supply chain transactions.China, the USA and India are the highly active countries in BCT research and publication.Multiple potential benefits to stakeholders are attributed to the BCT in the agri-food system.The key challenge is to bridge the digital gap between developed and developing nations.Future research on BCT should aim at easing and undistorted competition among stakeholders.