Exploring the Role of Blockchain Technology in Building Transparency and Traceability in the Halal Food Supply Chain

Abstract

The growing demand for transparency and traceability in the halal food industry has accelerated the adoption of digital technologies to strengthen halal supply chain management. This study aims to examine the potential role of blockchain technology in enhancing transparency, traceability, and consumer trust within Indonesia's halal food supply chain. Employing a qualitative approach through a narrative literature review, this study synthesizes relevant scholarly literature on halal supply chains, blockchain technology, and digital traceability systems. The findings indicate that blockchain can substantially improve the integrity of halal information by providing decentralized, transparent, immutable, and real-time data recording. This capability enables stakeholders to trace products throughout the entire supply chain—from raw material sourcing to final consumption—thereby minimizing data manipulation, counterfeit halal certification, and information asymmetry. In addition, blockchain enhances audit efficiency, strengthens halal governance, and increases consumer confidence while improving the global competitiveness of Indonesia's halal industry. The study contributes to the literature by offering a comprehensive conceptual analysis of blockchain integration into halal supply chain governance within the Indonesian context, where empirical and conceptual discussions remain limited. Despite its considerable potential, blockchain implementation faces several challenges, including inadequate digital infrastructure, limited technological capabilities among stakeholders, high implementation costs, and the absence of standardized regulatory frameworks. Therefore, stronger collaboration among government institutions, halal certification authorities, industry actors, and academic communities is necessary to establish an integrated blockchain ecosystem that supports a more transparent, accountable, and sustainable halal supply chain in Indonesia