Merck and the Hashgraph Group launched an integrated blockchain-based product traceability solution combining Merck's M-Trust authentication technology with the TrackTrace digital product passport platform built on the Hedera network. The collaboration, announced June 9, 2026, aims to help businesses meet European Union supply-chain transparency and traceability requirements under the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation, which became effective in July 2024. The integration embeds specialized security markers into products and packaging, enabling verification through handheld scanning devices, with authentication data recorded on the blockchain to create permanent digital records linked to each product's Digital Product Passport.
Merck Integrates M-Trust Authentication with Hedera-Based TrackTrace Platform
The integration embeds Merck's M-Trust technology into products and packaging as specialized security markers. Businesses and supply-chain participants authenticate these markers using handheld scanning devices to verify product genuineness. Once authentication completes, the verification data records on TrackTrace, creating a permanent digital record linked to the product's Digital Product Passport. The process establishes a connection between physical product authentication and blockchain-based recordkeeping. The companies indicated the combined solution can help organizations address regulatory expectations while enhancing visibility across global supply chains.
Solution Targets EU Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation Compliance
The platform supports Digital Product Passport requirements under the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation and traceability obligations associated with the EU Deforestation Regulation. The ESPR became effective in July 2024 as part of the European Green Deal strategy. The regulation applies to physical goods sold within the European Union and aims to improve resource efficiency, strengthen circular economy initiatives, and increase transparency concerning environmental impacts throughout product lifecycles. The frameworks require companies to provide detailed information regarding product origins, sustainability credentials, and supply-chain activities.
Supply-Chain Pilot Project Completed Across Multiple Industries
The organizations stated the technology has been tested through a supply-chain pilot project, though details regarding the specific deployment were not disclosed. The integrated solution is expected to support industries where product authenticity and traceability are critical, including food supply chains, pharmaceutical manufacturing, luxury goods distribution, and electronics production. These sectors face pressure from regulators, consumers, and business partners to demonstrate product authenticity and origin. Merck operates in healthcare, life sciences, and electronics, bringing expertise in product authentication and security technologies. The Hashgraph Group, based in Switzerland, focuses on enterprise blockchain and artificial intelligence solutions developed within the Hedera ecosystem.
Hong Kong and Shanghai Explore Blockchain Trade Infrastructure Under Project Ensemble
Authorities in Hong Kong and Shanghai have begun examining the development of a blockchain-based cross-border platform under Project Ensemble, an initiative led by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority. The project explores how trade documentation and commercial data can be integrated into trade finance systems to improve cross-border commerce and related financial services. The initiative reflects a broader trend toward the adoption of blockchain technology in trade, logistics, and supply-chain management, with organizations worldwide exploring distributed ledger solutions to improve transparency, reduce fraud, and streamline compliance processes.
FAQ
What did Merck and the Hashgraph Group announce on June 9, 2026?
Merck and the Hashgraph Group announced the integration of Merck's M-Trust authentication technology with the TrackTrace digital product passport platform built on the Hedera network. The solution combines physical product authentication using specialized security markers with blockchain-based recordkeeping to create permanent digital records linked to each product's Digital Product Passport.
Why did Merck and Hashgraph Group launch this blockchain traceability solution?
The collaboration aims to help businesses meet European Union supply-chain transparency and traceability requirements under the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation, which became effective in July 2024. The regulation requires companies to provide detailed information regarding product origins, sustainability credentials, and supply-chain activities as part of the European Green Deal strategy.
