Supply chain networks for optimized distribution of agricultural products: A mathematical approach

Agricultural supply chains are vital links between producers and consumers, requiring optimization to address challenges such as product allocation, transportation complexities, and route selection. These supply chains consist of production and demand hubs, represented by the administrative centers of each zone pair, which serve as proxies for these locations. This study presents a mathematical approach to optimizing supply chain networks for agricultural products, emphasizing the minimization of transportation costs and improved resource allocation. A linear programming model is employed to handle the complexities of distributing agricultural products in multiple geographic locations. By integrating constraints such as supply availability, demand at destination points and capacity constraints, the model identifies the most cost-effective distribution network. This output shows that just 6.9% of all potential routes were used in the best solution, which points to a distribution network that is sparse yet incredibly efficient. The flows are focused on affordable, long-distance connections between areas with plenty of supply and those facing shortages.