The Role of E-commerce in Enhancing Food Security: Opportunities and Challenges in Developing Economies

• Author(s): Dr. Olushola Adeborode, Kolawole ; Kolawole Owoigbe
• Paper ID: 1708374
• Page: 488-499
• Published Date: 10-05-2025
• Published In: Iconic Research And Engineering Journals
• Publisher: IRE Journals
• e-ISSN: 2456-8880
• Volume/Issue: Volume 8 Issue 11 May-2025

Abstract

The e-commerce sector experiences remarkable expansion and advancement in global business practices, which positively influences food security in developing nations. The integration of digital technology into agriculture enhances food security regarding accessibility, affordability, and availability (FAO, 2021). This study evaluates the role of e-commerce in mitigating food insecurity by examining its effects on the inefficiencies of conventional agricultural markets, transaction costs, and market reach (Reardon et al., 2020). - The adoption of e-commerce in developing economies is frequently hindered by structural barriers such as insufficient technology, lack of access to financial services, inadequate regulatory frameworks, and subpar logistical arrangements (UNCTAD, 2022). Furthermore, the deficiency in digital competencies and skepticism towards online transactions impede the adoption of e-commerce within the food distribution sector (Aker & Ghosh, 2016). The integration of mobile payment technologies, blockchain logistics, and AI agricultural analysis can significantly enhance food accessibility via digital commerce (World Bank, 2023). - This study integrates quantitative and qualitative methodologies through a case study approach, utilizing e-commerce data analysis to assess food security indicators. Evidence from Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia indicates that digital agricultural marketplaces mitigate post-harvest losses and enhance price stabilization (Lutz and Tadesse, 2017). Findings suggest that effective governance of e-commerce ecosystems can enhance food security in developing nations and other resource-constrained regions. The research concludes with recommendations for enhancing digital infrastructure development, regulatory frameworks, and trade policies that facilitate engagement in the digital economy.

Keywords

E-Commerce, Digital Agriculture, Supply Chains, Developing Economies, Food Security.

Citations

IRE Journals:
Dr. Olushola Adeborode, Kolawole , Kolawole Owoigbe "The Role of E-commerce in Enhancing Food Security: Opportunities and Challenges in Developing Economies" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 8 Issue 11 2025 Page 488-499

IEEE:
Dr. Olushola Adeborode, Kolawole , Kolawole Owoigbe "The Role of E-commerce in Enhancing Food Security: Opportunities and Challenges in Developing Economies" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 8(11)