Agro-industrial Sector Research Articles

The role and place of big data in official agricultural statistics

The agro-industrial sector, like other industries, is increasingly data-driven and data-analytical. From crop selection to assessing consumer food preferences, data is collected at every stage of the agricultural chain. The huge amounts of data collected and processed have already fundamentally changed the structure and efficiency of various agricultural production and supply systems. Modern digital technologies are being actively introduced into agriculture, from laboratory conditions to open and protected fields. The use of machine learning tools, robotics and big data technologies significantly transforms and optimizes not only production processes, but also methodological approaches for scientific research. The results of the study suggest that the use of big data sources in addition to statistical observations helps to reduce the burden on respondents, which is an important task for national statistical services.

Problems and Prospects for the Development of Cluster Structuring in the Economy of Kazakhstan’s Agricultural Sector: Theory and Practice

This article discusses the issues of cluster policy formation in the Republic of Kazakhstan on the basis of studying the experience of leading countries. The research aim is to find new effective tools and institutions for the development of the cluster structuring of the agro-industrial complex economy of Kazakhstan. Cluster policy in the field of supporting regional clusters starts with the identification of already existing clusters in the region, because by viewing the regional economy through the prism of various local industries and innovative enterprises, regional authorities can identify measures of effective impact and support for their clusters. This research examines the possibilities of using clusters and cluster policy as one of the most important components of the policy for the development and support of small and medium-sized enterprises in Kazakhstan’s agro-industrial complex. The research methodology includes qualitative and quantitative data analysis methods, comparative analysis, and mathematical processing (the Pearson correlation coefficient), as well as the modeling of possible development scenarios. The obtained results show that there are significant opportunities for a wider involvement of small and medium-sized enterprises in the formation of cluster structures of the agro-industrial sector through joint efforts by the government and regional centers in the conditions of innovative development of the country’s economy.

Comparative analysis of agricultural IoT systems: Case studies IoF2020 and CyberGreen

The Internet of Things (IoT) has revolutionized the agro-industrial sensor field, introducing new monitoring systems that go beyond traditional machine-to-machine (M2M) communication. This article reviews various IoT systems dedicated to data acquisition in the agro-industrial sector, with a particular emphasis on their monitoring capabilities and limitations in challenging environments such as greenhouses. The research involves testing different commercial systems using IoT stations. Given the complexity of monitoring climate and irrigation variables within greenhouses, these systems must withstand extreme weather conditions while ensuring robustness and quality in data collection. The article highlights the requirements and characteristics essential for effective monitoring, thereby providing valuable insights into the selection and optimization of data loggers in agricultural settings.

Combined feed production in Kazakhstan's agro-industrial sector

Combined feed production in Kazakhstan's agro-industrial sector

Influence of infrastructure institutions on the dynamics of agricultural production development in Kazakhstan

Object: to assess the impact of infrastructural institutions on the development of rural production, as well as to investigate the present results in agricultural production and its prospects. Methods: the system-functional approach was used as a general method, as well as general scientific methods: abstract-logical, dialectical; methods of statistical analysis. Results and conclusions. Findings: technology, infrastructure, and market strategies all play a role in fostering agricultural growth for the benefit of the broader population at all developmental phases. Insufficient infrastructure stands out as a significant barrier to the effective advancement of the agro-industrial sector. Investing public funds into infrastructure holds significance in establishing favorable conditions for financial markets to operate effectively in rural regions. Enhancing rural infrastructure also incentivizes commercial entities to extend favorable loan terms to farmers, as the associated risks diminish. Furthermore, a pivotal determinant of international competitiveness lies in the presence of sufficient and efficient national infrastructure. Conclusions: enhancing national infrastructure can bolster international competitiveness through several avenues, including boosting price competitiveness, enhancing non-price competitiveness, and attracting foreign direct investment (FDI).

Study of the influence of fish feeding on the example of carp (Cyprinus carpio L.) under conditions of chemical pollution of the aquatic environment

The study of the influence of chemicals in the aquatic environment on the nutrition of fish, which lead to gradual pollution of the aquatic environment and violation of living conditions, and the development of methods for improving the nutritional properties of fish, which is an important branch of science that combines fish biology, in-depth study of nutrition and rational management, has been established fish resources and environmental sustainability. In recent years, a significant amount of research has been conducted aimed at understanding the relationships between fish nutrition, their development and the quality of fish products, the influence of chemicals on these processes in today's conditions using the example of carp (Cyprinus carpio L.). Analyzing the data, it was found that the quality of fish nutrition depends on the quality and composition of water, which affects the growth, development and health of fish. Considering the requirements of nutrients such as proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals, good nutrition can improve the quality of fish production. Special attention is paid to the role of proteins in the metabolism of fish using the example of cyprinus carp (Cyprinus carpio L.), growth and development, as well as adaptation to the interesting study of the composition of tissue proteins of carp during cadmium and lead intoxication. This year's carp (Cyprinus carpio L.), which is a widespread object of pond culture in Ukraine, was used for the experiment. A detailed analysis indicates that taking into account the effect of toxic substances on fish nutrition is necessary to ensure their health and optimal fish production. The development of new feeding strategies and the use of special additives is becoming a key aspect not only for improving the quality of products, but also for ensuring compliance with safety standards and environmental sustainability in the field of aquaculture and fisheries. Such research identifies new ways to create sustainable and healthy fish populations, contributing to the coordinated development of the agro-industrial sector and the preservation of aquatic ecosystems.

Konsep Transformasi Struktural Pada Sektor Industri

Structural transformation is a process of transition from traditional economic system to modern economic system. Structural transformation is characterized by a shift in labor and investment from the primary sector to the secondary sector and the latter to the tertiary sector. Economic growth accompanied by structural transformation can be achieved by: (1) increasing productivity in each sector and (2) shifting labor from low-productivity to high-productivity sectors. One of the primary sectors in Indonesia is agriculture. Agriculture is an important sector for Indonesia. Indonesia is a country that is undergoing structural transformation the structural transformation of the economy generally from traditional agriculture to the agro-industrial sector and the non-agricultural sector (agribusiness) that creates higher added value (BPS, 2015)

Agro-Industrial Sustainability through Business Model: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract The agro-industrial sector makes a significant contribution to economic growth. However, availability, quality, processing and marketing of agro-industrial products remain a challenge. Research on agro-industrial business models has been widely conducted, but those discussing through a systematic literature review (SLR) approach are still limited. This paper aims to analyze the current business models in the agro-industrial sector and evaluate their sustainability, specifically business models that are currently popular in the agro-industry sector and demonstrate the highest level of sustainability. This study applies SLR by reviewing 33 Scopus documents obtained through VOSviewer version 1.6.20. Bibliometric analysis was used to make thematic observations. The results demonstrates that there is a robust correlation between documents pertaining to agro-industry and business models indicated by 13 co-citation articles. In addition, co-occurrence analysis shows there has been four major business models in agro-industrial sectors, namely agro-industry as part of sustainable development; agro-industrial linked to the agriculture sector; digital-based business models; and the agro-industrial complex. Finally, this paper provides recommendations for further research into the business model of the agro-industrial complex.

Drivers of Hired Labour Use among Sugarcane Outgrowers in Kilombero Valley, Tanzania

This study examined the drivers of hired labour use among sugarcane outgrowers in Kilombero Valley, Tanzania. The study adopted the cross-sectional survey design, encompassing the population of 8,987, with the sample size of 400 drawn from four villages within Kilosa District. The composition of the sample size was determined through a stratified sampling method, categorising outgrowers based on villages, hamlets and the gender of household heads. Data was gathered through a questionnaire. Descriptive and binary logistic regression analyses were employed, with the dependent variable measured on a dichotomous scale. The results reveal that household size, income, age, gender, land size and farm distance from home significantly influenced the utilisation of hired labour while the level of education was identified as an inconsequential contributing factor. These findings shed light on the recent development of hired labour use among outgrowers in the agro-industrial sector. Therefore, improving the functioning of rural labour markets should be considered an effective way of enhancing labour productivity for the mutual benefits of both households that hire and sell labour.

Theory and practice of cooperation in conducting scientific research and commercializing their results in the agroindustrial sector of the economy

The work examines nonlinear models of the innovation process (triple helix model and four-link helix model). The experience of the USA, EU, UK and Brazil in cooperation between science and the real sector of the economy in conducting scientific research and commercializing their results is presented. The features of the functioning of innovative venture funds founded by international agri-food corporations have been studied. In conclusion, directions for using promising foreign experience in the Republic of Belarus are proposed.

Biodegradable containers made from mesquite pods Prosopis juliflora (Sw.) DC for the production of plant seedlings

Currently there is a tireless search for sustainable solutions to minimize plastic waste in the environment. In this sense, this work aimed to develop a biodegradable packaging from mesquite pods (Prosopis juliflora), to act as a potential replacement for commercial packaging in the agro-industrial sector. To this end, mesquite pod flour (FV) was obtained to produce containers for plant seedlings. During processing, the flour was mixed with an adhesive solution of wheat starch, glycerol and NPK, molded manually and dried in an oven. The containers were evaluated by X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR), Ultraviolet-Visible Spectrophotometry (UV-Vis), Mechanical Resistance, Contact Angle (AC) and Water Absorption. The packages obtained semi-crystalline behavior, due to the presence of lignocellulosic compounds and the addition of NPK did not influence the chemical interactions between the adhesive solution and the FV. With the increase in the concentration of FV in the containers, the ultraviolet light absorption properties were intensified, but resulted in packages with lower tensile strength and greater water absorption.

Various Media used to Detoxify Abrus precatorius - A Mini Review

Abrus precatorius, sometimes referred to as jequirity bean or rosary pea, is a tropical and subtropical plant species that is extensively scattered all over. It is highly dangerous because of the presence of abrin, an exceptionally toxic protein. A. precatorius is a poisonous plant with great traditional and pharmaceutical value; therefore, to safely utilize its potential benefits, detoxification techniques are required. This review methodically examines the numerous detoxification strategies used in various media to lessen A. precatorius’s toxicity. There are various methods employed to detoxify the seeds which include cow’s milk, cow’s urine, fermented rice water, lemon juice, etc. The possible applications of detoxified A. precatorius in conventional medicine, pharmaceuticals, and agro-industrial sectors are also reviewed in this paper. Additionally, the paper also emphasizes new developments and potential paths for detoxification research, highlighting the necessity of creative solutions to maximize detoxification effectiveness while protecting bioactive components

Benchmarking of Management Excellence in The Agro-Industrial Sector in The Northwest Region of Romania

Industrial clusters nowadays represent a large part of the growth of SMEs (companies), jobs, and specialized regions. Regional growth is influenced by innovative clusters, which facilitate research, cost reduction, and new technical application. Clusters in the IT industry, renewable energy, furniture and agro-industry are popular in Romania's Northwest Region, with Cluj-Napoca being as the capital of gold clusters. The aim of the study was to examine the clustering strategy in Romania's northwestern region, Transylvanian Furniture Cluster, IT Transylvania Cluster, AgroTransilvania Cluster and TREC Transylvania Energy Cluster from the perspective of the Gold Label assessment. The study reveals that the four gold certified clusters share the following characteristics: a formal strategy, a specific strategy that addresses internationalization, innovation, research, development, and know-how, services primarily directed at members, international and transnational collaboration with multiple countries, and national and international funding support programs. The proposed recommendations and activities can contribute to improve each cluster's strategy.

PUMPKIN AND PASTEL WINE, A FRUIT AND A LEGUME OF THE CUCURBITACEES FAMILY IN GREEN CIRCULAR ECONOMY WITH ZERO WASTE

This study explores the viability of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) and pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo subsp. Pepo) as unconventional sources for sustainable winemaking, contributing to a zero-waste circular economy in viticulture. The research employs a multidimensional methodology encompassing chemical analyses, sensory evaluations, and environmental impact assessments to scrutinize the entire lifecycle of wine production. The findings reveal watermelon wine's superiority, boasting a 14° alcohol content, while pumpkin wine ranges at 11°. Both wines maintain physico-chemical and organoleptic attributes, with minimal alterations in micronutrient content. The compost generated from processing waste contains essential nutrients for plant growth. Comparative analysis underscores the advantageous nature of this compost, laying the foundation for sustainable winemaking practices in Madagascar and illuminating the untapped potential of tropical fruits in the global viticultural landscape. This study, pioneering the valorization of unconventional fruit and vegetable in Madagascar, strives to contribute to the discourse on environmentally conscious winemaking, fostering a paradigm shift toward ecologically harmonious practices in the agro-industrial sector.

Library as an element of infrastructure for the popularization of agricultural science (by the example of the Small Agricultural Academy of SFRCA RAS)

The issues of popularization of agricultural science, the formation of a natural scientific worldview, the development of the research potential of young students, primarily of school age, their early career guidance, and the construction of a long-term career trajectory to train highly professional scientific personnel and specialists in the agro-industrial sector are considered. As an example of implementing a long-term popularization project based on a scientific town’s scientific and educational infrastructure, the activities of the Small Agricultural Academy of the Siberian Federal Scientific Center for Agrobiotechnologies are presented. The functions of all project participants were analyzed and systematized, and the directions of their interaction were described. The role of the Siberian Scientific Agricultural Library, a branch of the State Public Library for Science and Technology SB RAS, as a multifunctional communication center in the field of agricultural science, as 'well as in popularizing its achievements among the younger generation, was especially noted.

Pengaruh Pengetahuan Hijau dan Religiusitas Terhadap Eco-Inovasi Produk Berbahan Baku Etnobotani Lokal

This study is driven by the significance of developing herbal medicine using local ethnobotanical ingredients, incorporating green knowledge and religiosity to influence the actions of individual production employees. It investigates the essential role of green knowledge and religiosity in the eco-innovation of herbal medicine from local ethnobotanical sources. Focusing on Solo Raya's herbal medicine agroindustry, the research aims to explore the interplay between green knowledge, religiosity, and product eco-innovation, particularly from the perspective of production employees. Employing a case study and explanatory approach, 100 randomly selected production employees participated, and data were analyzed using structural equation model-partial least squares (SEM-PLS). Results indicate that green knowledge and religiosity significantly contribute to promoting eco-innovation. Green knowledge facilitates the creation of environmentally friendly products with local ethnobotanical materials, while religiosity offers ethical support for sustainable innovation practices. The study underscores the pivotal role of production employees in balancing environmental sustainability and religious values, emphasizing the crucial link between these aspects for advancing eco-innovation in the herbal medicine industry. This research enriches our understanding of eco-innovation dynamics in the agro-industrial sector by embracing green values and religiosity.

Identification of transport and technological problems in the grain product subcomplex

The study focuses on the grain-product subcomplex within the Republic of Kazakhstan, aiming to dissect and address the prevalent issues plaguing this sector. It identifies several challenges, including technological deficiencies, inefficiencies, and increased production risks. There was a notable decrease in fixed capital investment in the agricultural sector in 2023, suggesting a shift in investment strategies or priorities, particularly with a significant reduction in food production investments. Agricultural exports in 2023, while showing a decrease compared to 2022, still represent a substantial economic activity. The capacity and utilization of grain storage facilities indicate a robust infrastructure capable of supporting the nation's grain production, with a considerable portion of storage capacity currently utilized and a significant amount of grain released in 2023. Furthermore, the research delves into cross-border rail transport of crops, with Uzbekistan emerging as a regional leader in exports. This analysis, along with the examination of export activities and grain storage capacities, emphasizes the role of innovation and technological advancements in enhancing the agroindustrial sector's efficiency and competitiveness. Optimization methods for modeling transport processes in agribusiness, such as digital technologies and intermodal transport, are proposed to address existing shortcomings. The study's findings are distinguished by their complex approach to addressing the problems within the grain-product subcomplex. This approach, highlighting the practical application under local conditions, makes the results uniquely tailored to Kazakhstan's context, offering a pathway towards improved agricultural practices and sectoral growth

Reconfiguration of Agrifood Supply Chain Management in Latin America during COVID-19: A Brief Literature Review

This study aims to analyze the changes in the agrifood supply chain (AFSC) configurations in Latin America (LATAM) imposed by the markets as an effect of the COVID-19 pandemic. This paper analyzes the results of mobility trends, production rates, logistics performance, and the strategies developed by managers and decision makers of the organizations of the agro-industrial sector for supply chain configurations during the early stages of the pandemic in a food-exporting region that contributes 14% of the world’s production of agricultural and fishery products. Through a literature review of reports and scientific articles on the behavior of the pandemic published by international organizations, research centers, and researchers around the AFSC in LATAM, the impacts on logistical disruptions, configuration strategies, and disruptive technologies applied in Latin American agrifood supply chains during the lockdown are identified. As a result of this reconfiguration of the AFSC, the development of short supply chains and the digitalization of supply based on electronic commerce were the most used strategies during COVID-19 in LATAM. The results of this study show that Mexico, Chile, and Brazil maintained a prominent position as leaders in the different logistics indicators for the AFSC by developing strategies that include short supply chains and the digitalization of supplies based on electronic commerce. Finally, this study also highlights the imminent need to address new research and theories on the reconfiguration of the AFSC, which allows expanding analytical capabilities in organizations to face future risks and challenges that will enable the reconfiguration of the supply chain in the face of catastrophic scenarios such as COVID-19.

Development of agricultural competences as a priority factor of the sustainable development of Ukraine’s economy

Statement of the problem and its relevance. The intensification of crisis phenomena in the modern labor market in Ukraine is characterized by the insufficient level and number of specialists in the agricultural sector trained by the higher education system, the strengthening of the imbalance between the demand and supply of labor in Ukraine and abroad, large-scale destruction and risks, low labor efficiency and an insufficient and unstable level its payments in the agricultural sector. The current state, problems, and prospects of strengthening agro-economic competencies are studied. The purpose of providing modern educational services is to train future personnel capable of managing a modern enterprise based on environmental friendliness and circularity, to carry out the production and sale of environmentally safe food products that meet the needs of consumers, considering force majeure circumstances, changes in the culture of consumption and projected needs for strengthening the sustainability of business processes for future generations. Education for sustainable development requires the immediate development and implementation of a comprehensive program of continuous training and education of students in ecology, environmental protection, and rational nature management. Recently, as a result of the war, Ukraine has suffered significant losses of economic, ecological, social, and educational potential. This hurt the socio-economic indicators of the country's development, living standards, and population size. Changes to the legislation on several educational measures for adapting young people to new conditions and post-war reconstruction are proposed, and the main elements and competencies adapted to the modern risk conditions of economic development in the agrarian sphere are substantiated. Ukrainian agriculture can realize significant potential only by training young people with a high moral and ethical level who share the world values of sustainable development and care for the environment, an environment important for full entry into the global food market. Knowledge is of excellent importance for recovery and further sustainable socio-economic development in the information society's formation conditions. Their formation takes place as a result of the educational sector fulfilling its mission of socio-economic upliftment. Keywords: sustainable development, agrarian education, competitiveness, sustainable development strategies, post-war competences of the growth of the agro-industrial sector, efficiency of agricultural enterprises, modernization of institutions of higher agrarian education, agrarian economy.

Assessing the Potential of Teff Husk for Biochar Production through Slow Pyrolysis: Effect of Pyrolysis Temperature on Biochar Yield

Environmental restoration and sustainable energy solutions require effective management and utilization of agricultural crop residues to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Biowastes are a valuable resource that can be converted into biofuels and their byproducts, solving the energy crisis and reducing environmental impact. In this study, teff husk, primarily generated in Ethiopia during the production of teff within the agro-industrial sector, is used as a feedstock for slow pyrolysis. Ethiopia generates an estimated annual production of over 1.75 million tons of teff husk, a significant portion of which is incinerated, resulting in significant pollution of the environment. This study focuses on assessing teff husk as a potential material for slow pyrolysis, a crucial stage in biochar production, to tap into its biochar-producing potential. To identify the composition of biomass, the teff husk underwent an initial analysis using thermogravimetry. The significant presence of fixed carbon indicates that teff husk is a viable candidate for pyrolytic conversion into biochar particles. The process of slow pyrolysis took place at three temperatures—specifically, 400, 450, and 500 °C. The maximum biochar yield was achieved by optimizing slow pyrolysis parameters including reaction time, temperature, and heating rate. The optimized reaction time, temperature, and heating rate of 120 min, 400 °C, and 4.2 °C/min, respectively, resulted in the highest biochar yield of 43.4 wt.%. Furthermore, biochar’s physicochemical, SEM-EDX, FTIR, and TGA characterization were performed. As the temperature of biochar increases, its carbon content and thermal stability increases as well. Unlike fuel recovery, the results suggest that teff-husk can be used as a feedstock for biochar production.