CQU project drives tech to trace from fields to families – in Australia and globally
CQUniversity researchers have marked a key milestone in their groundbreaking project to boost fruit trade between Australia and Indonesia, using blockchain to improve traceability, transparency and trust.
The project, led by Dr Imran Ali and Professor Delwar Akbar from CQU’s School of Business and Law, with IPB University’s Professor Yandra Arkeman, received Federal Government support this year, with a competitive research grant from Australia’s Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.
The $245,814 funding was part of the $3.9 million open competitive grant awarded under the National Agricultural Traceability Grants Program, to grow new and existing markets and build confidence in Australian products that are safe, sustainable, and traced through all stages of production.
In September, the Australian and Indonesian project team led a collaborative workshop at IPB University in Bogor, Indonesia, for researchers, industry and government.
Dr Ali, a Senior Lecturer in Innovation and Operations Management, said the gathering was excited to explore the transformative potential of blockchain technology in revolutionising horticultural supply chains between Australia and Indonesia.
“This project and visit to IPB University are both pivotal milestones in the ongoing strategic partnership between our two institutions, underscoring their shared commitment to advancing cutting-edge research and innovation in key global challenges,” Dr Ali said.
The event was facilitated by IPB University’s Dr Sari Intan Kailaku and CQU’s post-doctoral researcher, Dr Renata Klafke. It featured insightful presentations, panel discussions, and interactive sessions that encouraged deep engagement from all stakeholders.
Industry leaders (fruit importers) and the Deputy Director of the Directorate General of Horticulture (Ministry of Agriculture, Indonesia) expressed a strong commitment to the project’s goals.
“The discussions not only enriched the ongoing project but also laid the foundation for future initiatives between the two universities,” Dr Ali said.
The two institutions share innovative research expertise, across CQUniversity’s Centre for Regional Economies and Supply Chain (CRESC) and IPB University’s Blockchain, Robotics, Artificial Intelligence Network (BRAIN).
Dr Ali and Prof Akbar also delivered guest lectures during their visit, providing an overview of the activities and innovations spearheaded by CRESC, and insights on crafting impactful research.
The session was attended by more than 100 students and faculty members.
A field visit exploring IPB University’s cutting-edge innovations in agricultural supply chains also gave CQUniversity researchers valuable insights into Indonesia’s horticultural landscape.
“This work has established a strong foundation for future innovations in blockchain and supply chain transparency, further enhancing the global impact of CQU’s and IPB’s research,” Dr Ali said.
The Leveraging Blockchain for Enhanced Food Traceability and Trust in Australian-Indonesian Horticulture Supply Chains will deliver its findings by June 2025, and increase efficiencies and bottom-line benefits for Australian and Indonesian businesses.