DEVELOPMENT OF SHORT AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD SUPPLY CHAINS: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES OF ONLINE TRADING PLATFORMS

Abstract

This article analyzes short supply chains of agricultural and food products. Particular attention is paid to online trading platforms. The aim of the article is to identify the challenges and opportunities of online platforms in developing short supply chains of agricultural and food products. Methods of scientific and methodological literature analysis, descriptive and comparative analysis of documents and statistical information sources were applied. The results of the scientific literature analysis study showed that online trading platforms have many advantages, and one of the main ones is the opportunity for small farmers to enter the market and attract consumers. The main problems encountered in online trading platforms are low computer literacy, consumer distrust of farmers, emerging logistical problems and increasing competition with larger and more superior companies. Based on the presented examples of good practice from foreign countries, several ways are presented to expand online trading platforms in Lithuania: it is proposed to invest in consumer education, cooperation between farmers is recommended, and the use of technologies is used.