Blockchain technology and the agri-food sector

Question for written answer  E-002034/2021
to the Commission
Rule 138
Maria Spyraki (PPE)

Digital blockchain technology is part of the fourth industrial revolution. It enables transactions to be recorded digitally, facilitating transparency and cutting red tape. According to research by Gartner on entrepreneurship today, the food industry is shifting towards high technology in order to ensure the quality and freshness of goods once they reach final consumers. In particular, it reports that 20% of the world’s top ten revenue-based grocery chains will be using blockchain technology in the area of product safety and traceability by 2025. Financial services currently lead the way in the use of blockchain technology, and its benefits are expected to be felt over time in the agri-food, energy and health sectors and in industry.

In view of the above, and given the need to boost the competitiveness of European businesses:

• 1.What actions are planned at European level to integrate blockchain into European small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)?
• 2.Are there any European programmes that can be used for this purpose under the current programming period?
• 3.What amount of EU funding is available, both in total and specifically, to Greek SMEs in the agri-food sector and what is the timeframe for its absorption?