ENHANCING TRACEABILITY IN THE COCOA SUPPLY CHAIN OF IVORY COAST THROUGH DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES: AN INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Côte d’Ivoire, the leading global producer of cocoa, faces increasing pressure to modernize its cocoa supply chain in line with sustainability regulations and market transparency demands. Despite numerous pilot initiatives by major exporters and NGOs, the national sector remains highly fragmented, analog, and inequitable, with limited farmer inclusion and poor institutional coordination. This thesis investigates how digital traceability can be effectively and equitably implemented in Côte d’Ivoire’s cocoa sector to enhance transparency, ethical sourcing, and compliance with emerging international trade standards. The research applies a mixed-methods approach. A review of global traceability tools and case study benchmarking identifies key success factors and gaps. A simulated stakeholder survey models digital readiness and adoption willingness among farmers, cooperatives, and exporters. Python-based data analysis and visualization provide insight into regional disparities. Multi Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) is applied to prioritize traceability technologies based on usability, cost, scalability, and institutional feasibility. A national traceability framework is proposed, integrating GPS farm mapping, mobile apps, QR/RFID tagging, and centralized dashboards. The framework is aligned with stakeholder feedback, certification programs, and EU Regulation 2023/1115. Findings indicate that while mobile apps and GPS mapping are the most viable tools, systemic risks remain including digital illiteracy, infrastructure limitations, and governance fragmentation. The study presents a four-layer implementation roadmap, supported by a policy strategy covering technology infrastructure, institutional coordination, financial incentives, and community engagement. This research makes both academic and applied contributions by offering a context-specific blueprint for traceability integration in a resource-constrained, export-driven agricultural economy. It supports national and international stakeholders working toward sustainable cocoa production, compliance, and inclusive digital transformation in Côte d’Ivoire.