Is blockchain really needed for agriculture? What extra benefits it can bring compared to the existing technologies? I am not that optimistic, I am afraid

In very short terms, as far as I know, the aim is to replace traditional paperwork with digitan signatures, which then can be stored on the most secure system yet. Going further, blockchain would also be able to handle the payments between supply chain partners at the same time with transferring the goods, and eliminates the need for invoices, and considerations of bank settlement and accounts receivable days. The number and nature of benefits depends on the degree of collaboration between the paties involved, and the size of the network (Returns on network externalities).

Since practicioners are much ahead of academia regarding knowledge of blockchain technology, I would recommend the critical reading of one of the first proof of concept of blockchain in agriculture by AgriDigital, the report can be found on their website.

I share the vibe Dr Miraz. The technology is not mature enough at this stage for us to able to make conclusions.

Surely not only mature technologies make interesting and relevant research topics? Aversion of the blockchain hype is certainly prudent, but it is not far-fetched to say that the technology holds several promises. Even if the none of the current architectures will prevail, they have raised very important questions about current and normative forms of peer to peer trust, and the actual need for intermediaries in many areas, like food supply chains. That alone should provide a plenty of fertile grounds for future research.

I do agree with Levente that the new technology brings peer to peer transactions by eliminating middleman but it takes time that the new technology brings trust among parties.Hence the blockchain ultimately brings accountibility, traceability and quality !

DNAtix has completed the first Proof Of Concept (POC) test by transferring the complete genome sequence of a virus - Enterobacteria phage phiX174 sensu lato - over the Ethereum Blockchain. The bacteria phage, a single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) virus and the first DNA-based genome to be sequenced. Below link will lead you the recent press article.

https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-first-successful-transfer-of-dna-sequence-over-the-ethereum-blockchain-300630014.html

Agricultural crops needs similar transfer of their genomes into blockchain is secure and its opens many doors in agricultural sectors.

Hi H.N. Nagendra Pasad,

In January of this year (2018) the first ever blockchain transaction in agriculture was completed. The transaction, which was assisted by blockchain technology, revolved around soy beans being shipped from the United States to China. The test results were significant, improving the transaction for all participants that were involved. For more information about the test, follow the next link: https://www.reuters.com/article/grains-blockchain/u-s-soy-cargo-to-china-traded-using-blockchain-idUSL8N1PG0VJ.

With the first test being completed, and having significant impact on the efficiency of the transaction, it is expected that speed of development will increase. When considering all the benefits that blockchain brings, such as a clear trial path, decentralized trust, reduced costs, and improved efficiency, it is not the question if it will be applied in argiculture, but the question is when.

Currently, the term blockchain technology does not have a specific meaning among many people. As blockchain technology is a relatively young technology, that still needs to be further developed, it is indeed still to early to predict what exact functions will be replaced. In my opinion, agricultural transactions are the first to be revolutionized on the blockchain.

Blockchain is a promising technology towards the improvement of agriculture trades. However, the challenges involved are enermous and one of such is Government Policies!

Prior to this date, most national government are yet to understand and implement the use of blockchain technology.