Development of e-commerce in industrial agriculture

Abstract

The introduction of e-commerce in the Ukraineʼs agricultural sector is a transfor­mative opportunity due to the sectorʼs signi­ficant contribution to the countryʼs GDP and employment. The purpose of the study is to identify the impact of e-commerce on the Ukraineʼs agricultural industry, focusing on adoption, market accessibility, transparency, challenges, and the role of government support. The methodology combines qualitative and quantitative research, including literature review, surveys, interviews, and data analysis. The agricultural sector, which includes grains, oilseeds and livestock, faces challenges such as outdated infrastructure and market inefficiencies. E-commerce provides a solution to market access limitations, price transparency issues, and supply chain inefficiencies. Agri-platforms play a crucial role, providing a digital eco­system for farmers, agribusiness and stake­holders, enhancing collaboration, digital transformation, data exchange, and market access. The research results show a notable increase in the e-commerce adoption, with agri-platforms such as AgroMarket and Agro­Expert playing a key role. Advantages include increased market access, improved efficiency, transparency, streamlined procurement, and market diversification. Among the challenges there are digital literacy, resistance to change, logistical difficulties, and the need for secure digital payments. The study emphasizes the role of blockchain and the Internet of Things (IoT) in enhancing transparency, traceability, and efficiency in agribusiness. The proposed model points to supply chain integration, mobile access, digital payments, electronic markets, training, data analytics, standardi­zation, and environmental sustainability as key factors for effective e-commerce implementation. Agriplatforms, supported by blockchain and IoT technologies, contribute to the sectorʼs competitiveness. Government support and inter­na­tional initiatives are crucial for creating an enabling regulatory environment, increasing digital literacy, and ensuring financial assistance. The future promises improved stability and resilience of the Ukraineʼs agricultural sector thanks to optimized supply chains and improved market access through e-commerce.