2024 2nd International Conference on Disruptive Technologies (ICDT)

Securing Supply Chain - Blockchain: Leveraging

ICC for Product Verification and Validation
Mohd Sarfaraz Faiyaz Namrata Dhanda Aryan Srivastava
Department of Computer Science and Department of Computer Science and Department of Computer Science and
Engineering Engineering Engineering
Amity University Uttar Pradesh Amity University Uttar Pradesh Amity University Uttar Pradesh
Lucknow, India Lucknow, India Lucknow, India
[email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Guru Dev Singh Rajat Verma

Amity Institute of Information Department of Computer Science and
Technology Engineering
Amity University Uttar Pradesh Pranveer Singh Institute of Technology
Lucknow, India Kanpur, India
[email protected] [email protected]
2024 2nd International Conference on Disruptive Technologies (ICDT) | 979-8-3503-7105-5/24/$31.00 ©2024 IEEE | DOI: 10.1109/ICDT61202.2024.10489614

Abstract— This paper explores the importance of supply decentralized and immutable ledger system, offers increased
chain integrity in today's global business landscape, considering transparency, traceability, and security. This enables the
the substantial losses of over $500 billion annually attributed to recording and verification of product-related data across
counterfeit goods. It emphasizes the potential of emerging various supply chain participants, reducing the risk of fraud
technologies like blockchain and QR codes in verifying and and counterfeiting [5,6]. Additionally, QR codes provide a
validating products. The International Chamber of Commerce practical and user-friendly method of encoding information,
(ICC), representing over 45-million-member companies, plays a making it easily scannable by consumers or stakeholders to
crucial role in supply chain management, particularly in
verify product authenticity in real time [7]. By leveraging
product verification using these technologies. The paper
these technologies in tandem, businesses can significantly
examines the ICC's efforts in standardization, policy advocacy,
and industry collaborations related to supply chain
enhance visibility, accountability, and trust in their supply
management, focusing on publications, guidelines, initiatives, chains, while providing consumers with the assurance that the
and activities for product verification. Real-world examples products they purchase are genuine and safe [8].
demonstrate the benefits of blockchain and QR codes, including The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) plays a
enhanced transparency, traceability, and security against fraud. pivotal role in shaping and influencing supply chain
Industry reports highlight the financial implications of supply management practices globally. With its vast network of over
chain disruptions and counterfeit products, amounting to $4.2
45 million member companies from various industries, the
trillion annually for businesses. Challenges and implications of
ICC's efforts in standardization, policy advocacy, and industry
implementing these technologies are also discussed, considering
operational efficiency and sustainability in supply chains. In collaborations are crucial for improving supply chain
conclusion, the paper emphasizes the pivotal role of the ICC in integrity. By providing guidelines, best practices, and
supply chain management and suggests further research and initiatives related to product verification and validation, the
practical applications for blockchain and QR codes in supply ICC contributes to raising awareness and driving the adoption
chains. of innovative technologies like blockchain and QR codes [9].
Their involvement fosters a collaborative environment where
Keywords— Blockchain, QR codes, Supply chain businesses can come together to address common challenges
management, Product verification, Product validation, and work towards building more secure and transparent
International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) supply chains [10]. As businesses continue to embrace these
technologies and work in tandem with organizations like the
I. INTRODUCTION (HEADING 1) ICC, the potential for revolutionizing supply chain
Supply chain integrity is a pressing concern in today's management and bolstering product integrity becomes
globalized business landscape, as companies face increasing increasingly promising.
challenges to maintain the authenticity and quality of products
throughout complex supply chains [1,2]. The proliferation of II. LITERATURE REVIEW
counterfeit goods poses a significant threat, not only resulting A. Challenges of Supply Chain Integrity
in staggering financial losses but also damaging consumer
trust and brand reputation. These counterfeit products can be The challenges of supply chain integrity are multifaceted
hazardous to consumers' health and safety, undermining the and include issues such as counterfeiting, fraud, unauthorized
overall integrity of the supply chain. As a result, businesses product substitutions, and lack of transparency and
are actively seeking innovative solutions to enhance product traceability (WTO, 2017). Counterfeit goods, in particular,
verification and validation processes to ensure the legitimacy pose significant risks to businesses, consumers, and
of goods at every stage of the supply chain [3]. economies. They not only result in financial losses but also
erode consumer trust, damage brand reputation, and
Emerging technologies such as blockchain and QR codes compromise product safety and quality (WIPO, 2020).
have emerged as potential game-changers in the field of Addressing these challenges requires robust verification and
supply chain management [4]. Blockchain, with its

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 2024 2nd International Conference on Disruptive Technologies (ICDT)

validation processes that can ensure the authenticity, quality, obtained, shedding light on the current industry practices,
and safety of products throughout the supply chain. challenges, and potential solutions related to supply chain
integrity, product verification, and validation.
B. Potential of Blockchain and QR Codes in Supply Chain
Verification and Validation To support the arguments presented in the paper with
Emerging technologies such as blockchain and QR codes empirical evidence, quantitative data from reputable industry
hold immense promise in addressing the challenges of supply reports and studies were referenced. These reports and studies
chain integrity. Blockchain, a decentralized and distributed often contain valuable data and statistics related to supply
ledger technology, offers transparency, traceability, and chain disruptions, counterfeit products, and the impact of
immutability, making it ideal for recording and verifying blockchain and QR codes in supply chain management.
transactions in supply chains (Stahl & Heinzl, 2018). The use Referencing quantitative data from reliable sources added
of blockchain can enable secure and tamper-proof recording credibility to the research findings, strengthening the overall
of product information, such as origin, authenticity, and chain analysis. Furthermore, two existing algorithms were also
of custody, thereby enhancing supply chain transparency and incorporated into the methodology: the Blockchain-Based
traceability (Tse & Liang, 2017). QR codes, on the other hand, Traceability Algorithm and the QR Code-Based Validation
are two-dimensional barcodes that can be scanned using Algorithm. These algorithms provide a structured approach
smartphones or other devices to access digital information for ensuring traceability and verification of product
(Zohar & Yasinov, 2017). QR codes can be printed on product authenticity.
labels or packaging, providing a convenient means for linking
physical products to digital records, such as product
information, certifications, and traceability data (Alzaqebah et
al., 2018). The use of QR codes can enable consumers,
retailers, and other stakeholders to easily verify the
authenticity and other product attributes, enhancing trust and
confidence in the supply chain (Kshetri, 2019).
C. Role of ICC in Global Supply Chain Management
The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), a
renowned global business organization representing over 45
million member companies, plays a significant role in global
supply chain management, including product verification and
validation (ICC, 2021). The ICC's standardization efforts,
policy advocacy, and industry collaborations are instrumental
in shaping the discourse and practices of supply chain
management at the global level [11]. For instance, the ICC has
published guidelines, initiatives, and activities related to
supply chain management, including product verification and Fig. 1. Blockchain-Based Traceability Algorithm
validation using emerging technologies such as blockchain
and QR codes (ICC, 2021). The ICC's guidelines provide Steps. Algorithm1: Blockchain- Elaborated Steps for
Based Traceability Algorithm Algorithm
recommendations and best practices for businesses to ensure
1 GenerateHash(Product) GenerateHash(Product)
supply chain integrity and authenticity of products. For x Input = Product x Apply a hash function to
example, the ICC's "Guidelines on Integrity in Supply Chains" (specifications and the product's
highlight the importance of verification and validation manufacturing details) specifications and
processes, including the use of emerging technologies like x Output = Hash (unique manufacturing details to
blockchain and QR codes, to ensure product authenticity and digital fingerprint) generate a unique digital
return Hash fingerprint or hash.
prevent counterfeiting (ICC, 2018). The ICC also collaborates
2 CreateBlockchainTransaction CreateBlockchainTransaction
with other international organizations, governments, and (Product, Hash) (Product, Hash)
industry stakeholders to promote the adoption of best practices x Input: Product, Hash xCreate a transaction on the
and standards for supply chain management, including the use x Output: blockchain to record the
of blockchain and QR codes for product verification and BlockchainTransaction product's information
validation (ICC, 2021). transaction = and its corresponding
BlockchainTransactio hash.
The methodology adopted involves a comprehensive and n()
// Assign the
systematic approach to gathering relevant information and Product value to the
insights related to the topic. The methodology includes a "product_info" field
combination of literature review, analysis of International Transaction.product_
Chamber of Commerce (ICC) publications and guidelines, info = product
referencing quantitative data from industry reports and // Assign the Hash
value to the "Hash"
studies, as well as the incorporation of two existing field
algorithms: the Blockchain-Based Traceability Algorithm and Transaction.Hash =
the QR Code-Based Validation Algorithm. Hash
return Transaction
Additionally, an analysis of ICC publications and
guidelines was carried out. The ICC released publications and
guidelines relevant to the research topic. By studying these
resources, expert recommendations and best practices were

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 2024 2nd International Conference on Disruptive Technologies (ICDT)

3 UpdateBlockchainTransactio UpdateBlockchainTransactio 8 TraceabilityConfirmation(Aut TraceabilityConfirmation(Au

n(BlockchainTransaction, n(BlockchainTransaction, henticity) thenticity)
Event) Event) x Input: Authenticity x Confirm the traceability
x Input: x During supply chain x Output: Traceability of the product based on
BlockchainTransaction, events, update the (boolean) its authenticity status.
Event (changes in product's information on if Authenticity =
location or timestamps) the blockchain, such as true then
x Output: changes in location or Traceability =
UpdatedBlockchainTran timestamps. true
saction else
Transaction = Traceability =
BlockchainTransactio false
n() Table 1. Blockchain-Based Traceability Algorithm
Transaction.add_Even
t(Event) Table 1. elaborates on the Blockchain-Based Traceability
UpdatedBlockchainTra Algorithm that ensures product traceability and verifies
nsaction =
Transaction authenticity by following a systematic process. It starts by
4 RetrieveInfoFromBlockchain RetrieveInfoFromBlockchain generating a unique hash for each product based on its
() () specifications, creating a blockchain transaction to record the
x Output: StoredInfo, x Retrieve the stored product's information and hash. During supply chain events,
StoredHash information and hash the blockchain transaction is updated with relevant data. To
StoredInfo = from the blockchain.
RetrieveInfoFromBloc
verify authenticity, the stored information and hash are
kchain() retrieved from the blockchain, and a recalculated hash is
StoredHash = compared to the stored hash. If they match, the product is
RetrieveHashFromBloc considered authentic, affirming its traceability. This algorithm
kchain() utilizes blockchain technology's immutability and
//Assign the
retrieved values to
transparency, providing a robust framework for enhancing
the respective supply chain integrity and combating counterfeit products.
variables
StoredInfo =
stored_info
StoredHash =
stored_hash
return
StoredInfo,
StoredHash
5 RecalculateHash(Product, RecalculateHash(Product,
Event) Event)
x Input: Product, Event x Recalculate the hash
x Output: based on the current
RecalculatedHash product information and
CombinedData = supply chain events.
str(Product) +
str(Event)
RecalculateHash =
HashFunction(Combine
dData)
return
RecalculateHash
6 CompareHash(RecalculatedH CompareHash(Recalculated
ash, StoredHash) Hash, StoredHash)
x Input: RecalculatedHash, x Compare the
StoredHash recalculated hash with
x Output: MatchStatus the stored hash. Fig 2. QR Code-Based Validation Algorithm
(boolean)
if RecalculatedHash Steps. Algorithm1: QR Code-Based Elaborated Steps for
= StoredHash, then Validation Algorithm Algorithm
MatchStatus = true 1. ScanQRCode() ScanQRCode()
else x Output: QRCodeData x Scan the QR code
MatchStatus = false def ScanQRCode() using a smartphone or
return MatchStatus QRCodeData = "QR device, resulting in
AuthenticityVerification(Mat AuthenticityVerification(Mat code data" the retrieval of the
7
chStatus) chStatus) return QRCodeData encoded data from the
x Input: MatchStatus x Determine the QR code.
x Output: Authenticity authenticity of the 2. ExtractInfo(QRCodeData) ExtractInfo(QRCodeData)
(boolean) product based on x Input: QRCodeData xExtract the relevant
if MatchStatus = whether the recalculated x Output: ExtractedInfo product information
true, then hash matches the stored ExtractInfo = from the QR code
Authenticity = true hash. "Extracted product data.
else information"
Authenticity = false return ExtractInfo
return Authenticity

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 2024 2nd International Conference on Disruptive Technologies (ICDT)

3. CompareInfo(ExtractedInfo, UpdateBlockchainTransact Mathematical Equation:

Product) ion(BlockchainTransaction • β(BCT, E)
x Input: ExtractedInfo, ,
Product CompareInfo(ExtractedInf
//Update the blockchain transaction (BCT) with supply
x Output: MatchStatus o, Product) chain events (E) using the update function β.
(boolean) x Compare the 4. Q = ScanQRCode()
MatchStatus = extracted 5. ExtractInfo(Q)
ExtractedInfo == information • EI = ExtractInfo(Q)
Product with the
return MatchStatus
Mathematical Equation:
expected
product details. • EI = σ(Q)
4. AuthenticityVerification(Matc //Extract relevant product information (EI) from the QR
AuthenticityVerification(M code data (Q) using the extraction function σ.
hStatus)
atchStatus)
x Input: MatchStatus
Determine the authenticity 6. CompareInfo(P, EI)
x Output: Authenticity of the product based on • M = CompareInfo(P, EI)
(boolean) whether the extracted Mathematical Equation:
Authenticity =
MatchStatus
information matches the • M = δ(P, EI)
expected product details. //Compare the extracted product information (EI) with the
return Authenticity
Table 2. QR Code-Based Validation Algorithm expected product details (P) using the comparison function δ
Table 2. elaborates on the QR Code-Based Validation to determine the match status (M).
Algorithm involves four steps to validate a product's 7. RetrieveInfoFromBlockchain()
authenticity using QR code scanning. First, the QR code is • SI, SH = RetrieveInfoFromBlockchain()
scanned to retrieve encoded data, which is stored as Mathematical Equation:
QRCodeData. Next, the relevant product information is • SI, SH = π()
extracted from QRCodeData and stored as ExtractedInfo. //Retrieve the stored information (SI) and hash (SH) from
Then, the extracted information is compared to the expected the blockchain using the retrieval function π.
product details, resulting in a boolean value called 8. RecalculateHash(P, E)
MatchStatus. Finally, based on MatchStatus, the • RH = HashFunction(P, E)
AuthenticityVerification step determines whether the product Mathematical Equation:
is authentic; if MatchStatus is true, the product is considered • RH = φ(P, E)
authentic. This algorithm provides a straightforward and //Recalculate the hash (RH) based on the current product
efficient method to verify product authenticity through QR information (P) and supply chain events (E) using the hash
code-based validation. function φ.
9. CompareHash(RH, SH)
The proposed algorithm improves upon existing • IH = CompareHash(RH, SH)
algorithms by integrating both QR code-based comparison Mathematical Equation:
and blockchain-based traceability mechanisms, ensuring dual • IH = δ(RH, SH)
verification and comprehensive traceability. It addresses the //Compare the recalculated hash (RH) with the stored hash
limitations of relying solely on one algorithm, providing (SH) using the comparison function δ to determine the hash
enhanced security, real-time updates, and accurate tracking of match status (IH).
product information in supply chains. Additionally, the 10. AuthenticityVerification(M, IH)
combination of QR code data extraction and blockchain-based • V = M AND IH
transactions offers a robust and reliable method for Mathematical Equation:
authenticity verification and traceability, strengthening the Ь V = M ġ IH
overall integrity and transparency of the supply chain //Perform authenticity verification (V) by taking the
ecosystem. logical AND operation between the match status (M) and the
D. Proposed Algorithm: hash match status (IH).
11. TraceabilityConfirmation(V)
Input: Product information (P), Supply chain events (E), • T=V
QR code data (Q) //Confirm traceability (T) based on the authenticity
Output: Authenticity verification (V), Traceability (T) verification (V).
1. GenerateHash(P)
• H = HashFunction(P) E. Explanation:
Mathematical Equation: 1. The algorithm takes product information (P), supply
• H = φ(P) chain events (E), and QR code data (Q) as inputs and aims to
//Generate a unique digital fingerprint or hash (H) for the achieve authenticity verification (V) and traceability (T).
product based on its specifications and manufacturing details
(P). 2. The generate_hash() function calculates the hash
2. CreateBlockchainTransaction(P, H) value (H) using the hash function (φ).
• BCT = CreateTransaction(P, H) 3. The create_blockchain_transaction() function
Mathematical Equation: creates a blockchain transaction (BCT) by recording the
• BCT = α(P, H) product information (P) and the hash (H) on the blockchain
//Create a blockchain transaction (BCT) to record the using the transaction creation function (α).
product's information (P) and hash (H) on the blockchain
using the transaction creation function (α). 4. The update_blockchain_transaction() function
3. UpdateBlockchainTransaction(BCT, E) updates the blockchain transaction (BCT) with supply chain
• UpdateBlockchainTransaction(BCT, E) events (E).

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 2024 2nd International Conference on Disruptive Technologies (ICDT)

5. The extract_info() function extracts relevant product qr_code_data = ...

information (EI) from the QR code data (Q) using the hash_val = generate_hash(product_info)
extraction function (σ). transaction =
create_blockchain_transaction(product_info, hash_val)
6. The compare_info() function compares the product update_blockchain_transaction(transaction,
information (P) with the extracted information (EI) using the supply_chain_events)
comparison function (δ) and returns a match status (M). extracted_info = extract_info(qr_code_data)
7. The retrieve_info_from_blockchain() function match_status = compare_info(product_info,
retrieves the stored information (SI) and the stored hash (SH) extracted_info)
from the blockchain using the retrieval function (π). stored_info, stored_hash =
retrieve_info_from_blockchain()
8. The recalculate_hash() function recalculates the hash recalculated_hash = recalculate_hash(product_info,
(RH) based on the product information (P) and the supply supply_chain_events)
chain events (E) using the hash function (φ). is_hash_match = compare_hash(recalculated_hash,
9. The compare_hash() function compares the stored_hash)
recalculated hash (RH) with the stored hash (SH) using the authenticity_verification =
comparison function (δ) and returns a hash match status (IH). authenticity_verification(match_status, is_hash_match)
traceability_confirmation =
10. The authenticity_verification() function performs traceability_confirmation(authenticity_verification)
authenticity verification (V) based on the match status (M) and
the hash match status (IH) using the logical AND operator. III. STANDARDIZATION EFFORTS: ICC'S CONTRIBUTIONS
TO ESTABLISHING INDUSTRY GUIDELINES FOR PRODUCT
11. The traceability_confirmation() function confirms
traceability (T) based on the authenticity verification (V). VERIFICATION AND VALIDATION USING BLOCKCHAIN AND
QR CODES
12. The Python code demonstrates the implementation
The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) plays a
of the algorithm using the defined functions and variables for
crucial role in advancing supply chain management practices,
each step.
particularly concerning product verification and validation
using blockchain and QR codes. ICC's initiatives encompass
various aspects, including standardization efforts, policy
advocacy, industry collaborations, and capacity-building
activities, all aimed at promoting supply chain integrity and
responsible business conduct [12].
ICC's standardization efforts involve the release of
publications and guidelines that offer best practices for
businesses to ensure integrity in their supply chain operations.
Notably, the "Guidelines on Integrity in Supply Chains"
published by ICC provide comprehensive guidance to prevent
corruption, fraud, and unethical practices. These resources
serve as valuable references for companies seeking to
Fig 3. Proposed Algorithm Validation and Verification implement robust integrity measures, including the use of
blockchain and QR codes for product verification and
validation.
Additionally, ICC engages in policy advocacy at the
global level by collaborating with governments, international
organizations, and stakeholders to drive policy changes
promoting transparency and accountability in supply chains
[13]. The organization advocates for effective regulatory
frameworks, supports international trade agreements, and
encourages responsible business conduct, thereby fostering an
environment conducive to adopting blockchain and QR codes
for enhanced traceability and transparency. ICC's industry
collaborations further drive innovation and adoption of
blockchain and QR codes in supply chain management. These
collaborations involve partnerships, pilot projects, and
knowledge-sharing initiatives, positioning ICC at the
forefront of technological advancements. The organization's
active involvement in various collaborations ensures practical
insights and knowledge exchange among stakeholders in the
Fig 4. Python Code supply chain management field. Beyond its collaborative
efforts, ICC also conducts capacity-building activities,
# Main Algorithm awareness-raising campaigns, workshops, seminars, and
product_info = ... training sessions. These programs aim to enhance the
supply_chain_events = ... knowledge and skills of businesses, policymakers, and other
stakeholders in supply chain management, thereby promoting

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 2024 2nd International Conference on Disruptive Technologies (ICDT)

the adoption of blockchain and QR codes for product world examples indicate the immense potential of these
verification and validation, ultimately enhancing overall technologies to drive significant economic growth and
supply chain integrity [14]. transform supply chain operations. Embracing blockchain and
QR codes is no longer just a trend but a strategic imperative
In conclusion, ICC's multifaceted role in supply chain for companies looking to thrive in the digital age, as they offer
management, encompassing standardization, policy unparalleled benefits and opportunities for innovation.
advocacy, industry collaborations, and capacity-building
activities, makes it a significant player in enhancing supply V. QUANTITATIVE DATA ANALYSIS
chain integrity,d particularly concerning blockchain and QR
codes for product verification and validation. The Supply chain disruptions and counterfeit products pose
organization's dedication to providing valuable insights and significant financial risks to businesses, and quantitative data
guidance contributes to the development of robust supply analysis provides empirical evidence of their magnitude.
chain practices, fostering innovation, and encouraging Supply chain disruptions, stemming from various sources like
responsible business conduct globally. The references natural disasters and quality issues, can lead to production
provided in this analysis reinforce the credibility and delays, inventory shortages, and revenue losses. Reports from
comprehensiveness of ICC's contributions in this domain. the Business Continuity Institute and the Chartered Institute
of Procurement and Supply reveal that disruptions cost
IV. ILLUSTRATING THE BENEFITS THROUGH REAL- businesses an average of $1.3 million per incident, with some
WORLD USE CASES losses exceeding $10 million. Counterfeit products, including
fake goods and imitation brands, have become a global
Blockchain technology and QR codes are playing a menace, causing brand reputation damage, lost sales, and
transformative role in supply chains, offering various increased legal costs. Reports from the International
advantages that improve transparency, traceability, and AntiCounterfeiting Coalition and the Brand Protection
security. These technologies provide real-time visibility into Agency estimate that counterfeit products cost the global
the movement of goods, reducing information asymmetry economy $2.8 trillion and businesses $1.9 trillion in 2019,
among supply chain participants and enhancing trust [15]. respectively.
Blockchain's immutable ledger ensures end-to-end
traceability, creating an auditable trail of products from source Quantitative data analysis is crucial in identifying,
to destination, while QR codes provide an efficient means to quantifying, and mitigating these risks. For supply chain
achieve traceability and product verification. Security disruptions, businesses can use data analysis to assess
measures such as cryptographic techniques and encrypted QR vulnerability and develop contingency plans, diversify
codes safeguard sensitive supply chain information, reducing suppliers, and implement risk mitigation measures. Analyzing
the risk of fraud and data breaches. trends in counterfeit products can guide businesses in
deploying targeted brand protection strategies, such as
The economic benefits of incorporating blockchain and intellectual property enforcement and consumer education.
QR codes in supply chains are substantial. Improved Monitoring and detecting disruptions and counterfeit products
transparency and traceability lead to reduced operational costs in real time are possible through advanced technologies like
and streamlined processes, while combatting fraud and big data analytics, artificial intelligence, and blockchain.
counterfeiting protects brand reputation and enhances
customer confidence. The integration of these technologies By leveraging quantitative data analysis, businesses can
also opens opportunities for innovation, such as smart gain deeper insights into the magnitude of these risks and
contracts and customer engagement initiatives through QR implement effective risk management strategies. This
codes. Real-world examples of successful implementations includes proactive risk assessment, targeted protection
highlight the value of these technologies. Walmart's use of strategies, real-time monitoring, and the use of advanced
blockchain and QR codes in its pork supply chain in China, as technologies. Continued investment in research and data
well as their adoption in the diamond industry and luxury analysis is vital to address the dynamic nature of these
goods sector, demonstrate improved transparency, challenges and protect businesses from potential risks.
authenticity verification, and consumer trust [16]. Companies Quantitative data analysis is a powerful tool for understanding
like IBM and Maersk are leveraging blockchain and QR codes and addressing the financial implications of supply chain
to enhance transparency and traceability in the shipping disruptions and counterfeit products, providing evidence-
industry, and Nestle, Carrefour, and Unilever are ensuring the based decision-making, and safeguarding financial
authenticity and sustainability of their products in the food performance. As the field continues to evolve, ongoing
industry. research and innovation in quantitative data analysis are
critical to staying ahead of the challenges and proactively
Despite the numerous benefits, some challenges need to be protecting businesses.
addressed. Interoperability among different blockchain
platforms and QR code scanning apps remains a concern, VI. IMPLICATIONS AND CHALLENGES
requiring standardization efforts to enable seamless
integration. The scalability of blockchain technology is The implementation of blockchain and QR codes in supply
another consideration, especially for high-volume supply chains has both significant implications and challenges,
chains where real-time visibility and quick response times are supported by quantitative data from industry reports and
critical [17]. Data privacy and security are vital to protect studies. These technologies offer enhanced traceability and
sensitive information, and robust measures such as encryption transparency, enabling real-time tracking and verification of
and access controls should be implemented. Despite these products, as evidenced by reports from Deloitte and Scan
challenges, the adoption of blockchain and QR codes in Novation [18,19]. Moreover, blockchain and QR codes can
supply chains is expected to increase as technology evolves increase trust among stakeholders and improve compliance
and standards are established. The market values and real- with regulatory standards, reducing the risk of counterfeit

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 2024 2nd International Conference on Disruptive Technologies (ICDT)

products entering the supply chain and avoiding penalties and Secondly, practical applications of blockchain and QR
reputational damage (World Economic Forum, Statista). codes can be explored in different industries and sectors,
beyond the scope of this research paper. For example,
However, the adoption of these technologies also poses industries such as pharmaceuticals, automotive, food and
challenges. Ensuring data privacy and security is crucial due beverage, and luxury goods can greatly benefit from enhanced
to the decentralized nature of blockchain and the vulnerability supply chain transparency and traceability to combat
of QR codes to breaches. Organizations must implement counterfeiting, improve quality control, and ensure product
robust security measures and comply with data protection authenticity. Further research can focus on case studies and
regulations to safeguard sensitive information (Gartner, pilot projects in these industries to assess the feasibility and
European Commission). Interoperability and standards are effectiveness of blockchain and QR codes in real-world
other critical challenges, as different blockchain platforms supply chain scenarios.
may hinder data exchange among stakeholders, and QR codes
need to adhere to industry standards to ensure reliability Thirdly, collaboration among stakeholders in the supply
(World Economic Forum, GS1). chain ecosystem is crucial for the successful implementation
of blockchain and QR codes. The ICC can play a vital role in
Operational efficiency is a concern, as blockchain facilitating such collaboration, bringing together various
transactions may require higher computational power and stakeholders, including manufacturers, suppliers, logistics
longer processing times, and QR codes may add complexity providers, regulators, and consumers, to jointly develop and
to supply chain processes. Organizations need to carefully implement blockchain-based solutions for supply chain
assess potential impacts and implement strategies to optimize management. Partnerships, consortia, and industry alliances
performance (Deloitte, Bain & Company). Sustainability is an can be formed to foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing,
important consideration, as blockchain's computational paving the way for the widespread adoption of these
requirements and QR code usage may have environmental technologies in supply chains.
implications. However, some studies suggest that blockchain
can also enable sustainability initiatives, balancing potential The paper has highlighted the pivotal role of the ICC in
benefits with environmental impacts (CoinShares, World supply chain management and the potential of blockchain and
Economic Forum). QR codes for product verification and validation. The
recommendations for further research and practical
Overall, the adoption of blockchain and QR codes in applications of these technologies in supply chains can serve
supply chains offers valuable benefits but requires careful as a roadmap for future endeavors in this field. Leveraging the
consideration of the associated challenges. Organizations expertise, resources, and collaborative efforts of the ICC and
must evaluate their implications, address data privacy and other stakeholders can contribute to securing supply chains,
security, tackle interoperability and standardization, optimize enhancing transparency, traceability, and security, and
operational efficiency, and balance sustainability concerns to fostering sustainable and responsible supply chain practices.
ensure successful implementation.
Furthermore, the successful implementation of blockchain
VII. CONCLUSION and QR codes in supply chains can have far-reaching
The paper has discussed the significant role of the implications for various stakeholders. Manufacturers can
International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) in securing supply benefit from improved visibility and traceability of their
chains with blockchain and QR codes for product verification products, reducing the risk of counterfeiting and ensuring the
and validation. The analysis of quantitative data from industry authenticity of their goods. Suppliers can have better insights
reports and studies has highlighted the financial implications into the movement of goods, leading to optimized inventory
of supply chain disruptions and counterfeit products, management and reduced stockouts or overstocks. Logistics
estimated at $4.2 trillion annually for businesses. The providers can benefit from increased transparency and
utilization of blockchain and QR codes in supply chains has efficiency in transportation and logistics operations, reducing
emerged as a promising approach to enhance supply chain delays, errors, and costs. Regulators can have enhanced
transparency, traceability, and security. The pivotal role of the oversight and regulatory compliance, leading to improved
ICC in supply chain management cannot be overstated. As a safety and quality standards. Finally, consumers can gain
globally recognized and respected organization, the ICC plays confidence in the authenticity and safety of the products they
a crucial role in setting industry standards, guidelines, and best purchase, leading to increased trust and loyalty towards brands
practices for international trade and commerce. Leveraging and businesses.
the expertise and resources of the ICC can significantly The paper, some challenges and considerations that need
contribute to the successful implementation of blockchain and to be addressed in the implementation of blockchain and QR
QR codes in supply chains, ensuring that the benefits of these codes in supply chains. One challenge is the interoperability
technologies are realized to their fullest extent. and standardization of blockchain platforms and QR code
Based on the analysis and discussion, several technologies, as different systems may have varying
recommendations can be made for further research and protocols, formats, and data structures. Efforts towards
practical applications of blockchain and QR codes in supply developing industry-wide standards and interoperability
chains. Firstly, there is a need for further research to explore frameworks can help mitigate this challenge and ensure
the potential of blockchain and QR codes in addressing other seamless integration and interoperability of different
supply chain challenges, such as sustainability, circular blockchain platforms and QR code technologies. Another
economy, and ethical sourcing. This can involve examining challenge is the cost and complexity of implementing
the use of smart contracts and decentralized applications blockchain and QR codes in supply chains, especially for
(dApps) on blockchain platforms to promote responsible and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with limited
sustainable supply chain practices. resources and technical capabilities. The adoption of these
technologies requires investment in infrastructure,

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 2024 2nd International Conference on Disruptive Technologies (ICDT)

technology, and training, which may pose barriers to entry for [5] Investigating Walk Pressure Pattern Monitoring on Supply Chain
SMEs. Efforts to provide resources, support, and incentives Product-Related Injuries. (2019, May 30). International Supply Chain
Technology Journal, 5(6). https://doi.org/10.20545/isctj.v5i6.189
for SMEs to adopt blockchain and QR codes in their supply
[6] Pandey, R., Faiyaz, M. S., Singh, G., & Uddin, Z. (2023). Functional
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2.00005-x
Additionally, there are sustainability considerations in the
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