Farm-to-fork digitally enhanced traceability systems : a case study of high-valued fruits and vegetables | |
| Author | Nanthira Tina Marie Rodvong |
| Call Number | AIT Diss. no.AB-25-01 |
| Subject(s) | Food security--Thailand--Case studies Food supply--Thailand--Case studies Sustainability--Technological innovations Blockchains (Databases) |
| Note | A Dissertation submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Agribusiness Management |
| Publisher | Asian Institute of Technology |
| Abstract | The literature revealed that despite advances in IoT-based traceability systems globally, existing research predominantly focuses on technical implementation aspects rather than socio-economic considerations and stakeholder engagement. Current studies around the world are limited in scope, often restricted to pilot projects in specialized sectors, with insufficient analysis of system scalability, alignment with Sustainable Development Goals, and stakeholder preparedness. This knowledge deficit underscores the necessity for interdisciplinary investigation to facilitate effective adoption strategies and evidence-based policy formulation for Thailand's food supply chains, which this study addresses through its comprehensive examination of the durian sector. This study evaluates the adoption of digital traceability and food safety practices among stakeholders in Thailand's durian supply chain, a high-value export crop valued at 125,989 million baht with production spanning over 151,432 hectares nationwide as of 2023. The research was guided by established technology adoption frameworks including Chain's (2010) Perception-based Model for Technology Innovation in SMEs, Davis's (1989) Technology Acceptance Model, and Rogers' (1995) Innovation Diffusion Theory. The first research stage consisted of a comprehensive literature review of IoT-based traceability systems for fresh food supply chains, which identified key success factors and implementation barriers faced in other countries. Findings indicate that IoT-based traceability systems positively impact multiple Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG2 (Zero Hunger), SDG3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), SDG11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). However, the literature review also revealed the potential to exacerbate inequalities without policy intervention and SDG alignment, as IoT-based traceability requires technological skills and access that disadvantaged populations often lack.Using non-probabilistic quota sampling, face-to-face questionnaire interviews were conducted with 135 farmers, five intermediaries (packers and processors), and 20 traders (retailers and distributors) in Thailand's Chantaburi and Trak provinces between March and October 2023. Binary probit regression analysis of survey responses revealed inadequate knowledge and attitudes toward digital traceability systems and food safety measures among stakeholders. Operational scale, certifications, and age were significant factors influencing stakeholders' knowledge, while overall knowledge was positively substantial across nearly all attitude measures. Current digital traceability practices demonstrated shallow technology usage (mean score of 1.40 on a 5-point scale) for activities such as digital form usage for pesticide tracking, QR/barcode implementation, mobile/computer record-keeping, and maintaining digital records. Surprisingly, traceability training (significant for 18 out of 20 practice items), non-farm stakeholders (15 out of 20 items), and older stakeholders (13 out of 20 items) were the main contributors to digital traceability practice adoption, contradicting expectations that younger generations would be more technologically engaged. While attitude was generally insignificant in relation to practice, overall knowledge significantly predicted practice adoption. Usefulness perception of digital traceability was considered positive, especially for training purposes, digital form for pesticide/herbicide tracking, and digital storage and movement of durian. Traceability-trained stakeholders reported access to technology, human resource skills, and support as key constraints to adoption. A supplementary focus group involving 32 participants from a farming community in NakhonPhathom identified similar constraints and provided insights on motives to engage and encourage participation, including clearly defined benefits, economic incentives (particularly "life security assurance" ensuring market access and fair pricing continuity), and community and sustainable development opportunities.The research concludes that standardization is critical for enabling IoT-based traceability across fresh food products to achieve economies of scale, addressing a primary barrier identified in both the literature review and focus group discussions. Policy recommendations include: (1) subsidy programs to include smallholders and facilitate technology access; (2) knowledge and skills training for enhancing agricultural productivity and competitiveness; (3) public-private technology partnerships and industry collaboration; and (4) regulatory frameworks for standardization, transparency, accountability, and food safety assurance. Study limitations include restricted sample size and non-random sampling methodology. |
| Year | 2025 |
| Type | Dissertation |
| School | School of Environment, Resources, and Development |
| Department | Department of Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources (Former title: Department of Food Agriculture, and BioResources (DFAB)) |
| Academic Program/FoS | Agribusiness Management (AB) |
| Chairperson(s) | Anal, Anil Kumar |
| Examination Committee(s) | Dailey, Matthew N.;Tsusaka, Takuji W.;Himanshu, Sushil Kumar |
| Scholarship Donor(s) | His Majesty the King’s Scholarship (Thailand) |
| Degree | Thesis (Ph.D.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 2025 |