Digitalisation, Tokenisation and Trusted Data Infrastructure for Multi‐Purpose Agricultural Cooperatives in Serbia and the Western Balkans A Practical Operating Model and Tokenomics Framework Using IBDCP Layer‐Zero

Abstract

Dean Rakic and Budo Brajovic

Multi�?�purpose agricultural cooperatives in Serbia and the Western Balkans are increasingly expected to provide end�?�to�?�end services across inputs, machinery, grain trading and aggregation, cold chain, and processing. Many cooperatives underperform or fail due to recurring operational failure points: credit�?�linked inputs that create arrears and liquidity stress, side�?�selling that weakens volumes and bargaining power, inconsistent grading and quality controls, weak governance and limited professional staffing, and fragmented evidence trails that slow audits, financing, and support programs. This paper synthesizes desk research and regional constraints and proposes a practical operating model in which Digitalisation is treated as an operating discipline - combining service�?�line economics, clear member contracts, and verifiable records. Building on Serbia’s public digital infrastructure (eAgrar and e�?�invoicing) and investment opportunities under IPARD III, the proposal introduces a “collaborator�?�to�?�collaborator (C2C)” principle supported by a permissioned evidence backbone using IBDCP Block control (Interoperable Blockchain Data Custody Protocol) as a Layer�?�Zero consensus and interoperability layer. Tokenisation is added as a closed�?�loop utility mechanism to convert verified activity into programmable rights and incentives - e.g., loyalty/patronage credits, service access tokens for scarce capacity, and quality proof attestations - without creating publicly traded speculative assets. Optional AI services can augment planning, anomaly detection, and member advisory, but do not replace governance. The paper concludes with a phased implementation roadmap and policy recommendations for ministries, paying agencies, municipalities, cooperative unions, and development partners.

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