AGRI CONNECT: A Digital Platform for Direct Trade Between Farmers and Restaurants

Abstract

Farmers often face economic disadvantages due to intermediaries in the agricultural supply chain. In many cases, middlemen purchase crops from farmers at relatively low prices and later sell the same produce to restaurants or retailers at much higher rates. This price difference reduces farmers' earnings and limits their ability to receive fair compensation for their work. To address this issue, AGRI CONNECT is proposed as a web-based digital marketplace that directly links farmers with restaurants. The primary aim of the platform is to reduce the dependence on intermediaries and allow farmers to sell their produce directly to buyers. Through the system, farmers can create accounts and upload information about their available crops, including type, quantity, and price. Restaurants can then explore the listed products and place orders directly with farmers according to their requirements. The platform is to design the user interface, ensuring that the system is easy to access and navigate. The backend functionality is implemented using the Django framework, which manages data processing and user interactions. SQLite3 is used as the database to store information related to users, crop listings, and orders. By enabling direct transactions between farmers and restaurants, the proposed system helps farmers obtain better prices for their produce while ensuring transparency in the buying and selling process. Ultimately, the platform supports a more balanced and efficient agricultural market by promoting fair trade practices through digital technology.