Unveiling major factors in blockchain-driven sustainable development of agri-food supply chains

Purpose Blockchain is an emerging digital technology with the potential to enhance transparency, traceability and coordination in agri-food supply chains. This study aims to facilitate the integration of blockchain by exploring the factors that influence the readiness of agri-food supply chains to employ blockchain technology. Design/methodology/approach This study proposes five major factors based on the Technology–Organization–Environment framework. The cause and outcome factors are distinguished, and influence levels of the factors are divided using the integrated DEMATEL–interpretative structural modeling (ISM) method. Findings The study argues institutional pressures such as regulation and standard and supply chain structural drivers such as complexity and diversity are the primary determinants of blockchain adoption, while technological instability and high costs remain critical implementation barriers. Practical implications The findings guide policymakers and practitioners in identifying key enabling conditions and governance priorities for coordinated blockchain implementation. Originality/value This study contributes by explaining how institutional and structural conditions shape blockchain adoption pathways that create the necessary governance conditions for sustainability-oriented practices in agri-food supply chains.