Robust Supply Chains in the Agri-food Industry

This report presents the most important results of the research project "ROBVEK" (Robust Supply Chains). As the topic is very broad, certain subject areas were identified in the course of preparing the project that require more in-depth consideration. An important element of robust supply chains is knowledge of the interaction and coordination of the actors involved. This requires transparency about the existing structure and market situation. Prices are essential for the coordination of market participants. In the course of the project, a price portal was developed that presents the current market situation, especially for farmers, and thus contributes to improving transparency. The project also analysed how current prices on the futures exchanges can be used to determine the expected prices at the time of harvest for important crops. Extensive material is available on the current and past development of consumer prices. However, forecasts of expected food prices have not yet been made in Austria. A method has been developed for this purpose and a database created to facilitate updates. Detailed volume flow balances and diagrams were drawn up for the markets for grain products and pork in Austria. The dependence on international supply chains was also analysed. An interactive visualisation portal was developed for this purpose. The results of the individual work packages were documented in reports and made available to the wider public in policy briefs.