Transparent Threads: Enhancing Handicraft Supply Chain Ethics and Transparency with Blockchain, Smart Contracts and Encrypted-RSA NFTs

This paper explores the development and implementation of a blockchain-based supply chain management system, tailored for the handicraft industry, utilizing smart contracts, Encrypted-RSA Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs), and the InterPlanetary File System (IPFS). This system is designed to address key challenges within the industry, including the need for traceability, ethical sourcing, and the assurance of data integrity from production to consumer. Drawing on existing research, this study illustrates how blockchain technology can reinforce trust, transparency, and ethical practices within supply chains. The paper details the system’s architecture, its operational capabilities on various Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM)-compatible platforms, and evaluates its performance in terms of transaction speed, cost, and overall reliability. The findings indicate that the integration of these technologies can significantly enhance the management of handicraft supply chains, offering a more transparent, efficient, and ethical framework for stakeholders.