Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an AI-based buyer selection system for exporters of agricultural and processed foods for helping exporters in trade portals, analyze buyer credibility and evaluate global demand, thereby enabling data-driven buyer targeting, fraud prevention, and secure international transactions.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Exporters of agricultural and processed food products often face challenges in identifying credible international buyers, ensuring compliance with country-specific trade regulations, and managing risks associated with logistics, payments, and fraud. The global trade landscape is dynamic, and relying solely on manual processes or limited trade, leading to missed opportunities, financial losses, or shipment disruptions.

[0003] Traditional methods include manual verification of buyer credentials, consultation with trade directories, and reliance on intermediaries or agents to identify potential buyers. These existing approaches are time-consuming, prone to errors, and often lack real-time data on buyer credibility, market trends, or regulatory updates.

[0004] WO2024128334A1 discloses a buyer recommendation device and a buyer recommendation method. According to one embodiment, provided is a buyer recommendation method comprising the steps of: (step S1) a screen configuration module providing a product input box that enables a user to input the name of a product desired to be exported or imported; (step S2) a needs provision module providing a needs selection box that enables needs of the user to be input therein; and (step S3) a buyer recommendation module recommending a buyer by applying, to a buyer recommendation algorithm, the input product and the needs of the user.

[0005] US7047219B1 discloses an accounts receivable database receiving and storing invoices issued by one or more prescribed vendors for sales made to specified buyers. A credit limits database contains various credit limits applicable to buyers' accounts receivables that are subject to existing third party financing, the credit limits dictated by factors including terms of said third party financing. A credit limits tester performs substantially real time checking of buyers' invoices in the accounts receivable database to ensure compliance with the credit limits set forth in the credit limits database for said buyers.

[0006] Conventionally, many systems used by exporters are fragmented, focusing separately on trade data, buyer directories, logistics, or compliance. These existing platforms often lack the capability to provide a unified, AI-driven assessment of buyer reliability, or predictive analytics based on global market trends. As a result, exporters face inefficiencies in decision-making, increased operational costs, and higher exposure to risks in the related markets.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a system that requires to be capable of consolidating trade, and risk assessment, ensuring regulatory compliance, and facilitating secure transactions, thus reducing dependency of exporters on manual or intermediary-driven processes.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop an AI-based system that is capable of assisting exporters of agricultural and processed foods in identifying reliable international buyers thereby analyzing trade data, buyer histories, and transactional credibility.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that is capable of verifying exporter compliance and generate performance reports for monitoring export activities.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that is capable of suggesting new market opportunities for agricultural and processed food products, thereby supporting strategic market expansion.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that is capable of optimizing logistics operations for efficient international trade.

[0013] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that is capable of assessing buyer risk, thus helping to prevent fraudulent transactions.

[0014] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a system that is capable of analyzing geopolitical and economic conditions, thus supporting safer trade decisions for exporters.

[0015] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0016] The present invention relates to an AI-based buyer selection system for exporters of agricultural and processed foods that automatically identifies credible international buyers, filters them based on trade reliability, and evaluates associated risks, thus enhancing transaction security, and promoting market expansion for agricultural and processed food exporters.

[0017] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an AI-based buyer selection system for exporters of agricultural and processed foods comprises a ICEGATE Integration Module that connects to ICEGATE to check exporter registration and compliance and a function to generate reports on trade performance using ICEGATE data, a connection module that connects to international trade websites to gather buyer profiles, and filters buyer profiles to prioritize high-quality buyers for exporters, a supplier analysis module that connects to supplier websites to collect data on product demand and global market trends.

[0018] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the system further comprises a logistics optimization module that connects to logistics companies to get real-time shipping data, a compliance module that connects to government portals to ensure exporters follow trade regulations for international markets, an AI based buyer ranking module to evaluate buyer credibility, a supply chain and payment risk to assess geopolitical risks and payment security, a function to suggest new market opportunities, a logistic module ensuring timely delivery to international buyers, a fraud detection function that flags buyers with or high-risk financial profiles and escrow services to ensure secure payment transactions for exporters.

[0019] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates a flow chart of an AI-based buyer selection system for exporters of agricultural and processed foods.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0022] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0023] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0024] The present invention relates to an AI-based buyer selection system for exporters of agricultural and processed foods that monitors and evaluates trade-related factors such as buyer credibility, market demand fluctuations, and geopolitical risks, thereby enhancing operational safety, minimizing trade-related uncertainties, and providing real-time insights to exporters for timely and informed decision-making.

[0025] Referring to Figure 1, a flow chart of an AI-based buyer selection system for exporters of agricultural and processed foods is illustrated.

[0026] The system disclosed herein includes an ICEGATE Integration Module that is configured to establish a secure connection with the Indian Customs Electronic Gateway (ICEGATE), which serves as the central portal for electronic customs documentation and trade data exchange in India. The primary purpose of ICEGATE Integration Module is to verify exporter credentials, ensure compliance with customs regulations, and retrieve trade data for performance analysis.

[0027] The ICEGATE Integration Module comprises a secure interface that communicates with ICEGATE using authorized credentials, such as digital signatures or login tokens registered by the exporter. Upon establishing a connection, the module retrieves key information related to the exporter’s registration status, including the Import Export Code (IEC), registration under relevant customs zones, and the current validity of any required licenses or authorizations.

[0028] In addition to compliance verification, the ICEGATE Integration Module comprises a function that is configured to generate comprehensive reports on the exporter's trade performance using the data retrieved from ICEGATE. This function utilizes the exporter’s transaction history, including shipment frequency, product categories, destination countries, declared values, and clearance timelines to create structured summaries and visual reports.

[0029] The obtained reports are intended to help exporters track their export activities over defined periods such as monthly, quarterly, or annually. The function highlights key performance indicators such as peak export periods, major destination markets, recurring customs issues, and product-wise export contributions.

[0030] Additionally, the reporting function allows for customizable filters, enabling users to generate focused reports based on specific countries, commodities, or timeframes. These reports are exported in standard formats such as PDF or Excel, thereby supporting record-keeping and presentations to internal stakeholders or trade consultants.

[0031] To establish secure communication with various international trade websites the system includes a connection module that is configured to identify potential international buyers for agricultural and processed food exporters, while assessing each buyer’s credibility and trade behavior based on publicly and commercially available data.

[0032] The connection module retrieves data such as buyer profiles, historical purchase records, transaction volumes, geographic regions of activity, frequency of orders, and feedback ratings submitted by previous sellers. Once the relevant data is retrieved, the connection module processes the information using an integrated artificial intelligence function.

[0033] The artificial intelligence based function includes ranking logic that evaluates and scores buyers based on a combination of attributes such as order volume, purchase regularity, feedback score, dispute history, and presence on multiple trade platforms. Buyers demonstrating consistent, high-volume, and positively rated transactions are ranked higher, making them more visible to exporters.

[0034] The connection module further comprises a filtering function that is configured to prioritize high-quality buyers for exporters by analyzing and sorting buyer profiles based on feedback ratings and past order sizes. The filtering function enables the system to discard or deprioritize low-rated or low-activity buyers and present exporters with a refined list of potential trade partners who demonstrate reliability and consistent order behavior.

[0035] The filtering function disclosed herein works by setting rating thresholds and minimum historical purchase volumes. Buyers who meet or exceed these thresholds are flagged as preferred candidates, while those with negative reviews, frequent disputes, or limited order activity are either hidden or marked for caution.

[0036] The system disclosed herein further includes a supplier analysis module that is configured to establish connections with various supplier websites, online marketplaces, and trade portals in order to collect data related to product demand and global market trends. The primary objective of the supplier analysis module is to assist exporters of agricultural and processed foods in identifying products that are currently in demand and to facilitate matching with international buyers seeking those products.

[0037] The supplier analysis module retrieves data such as product listings, regional supply patterns, seasonal availability, pricing trends, frequency of restocking, and supplier-buyer interaction metrics. The retrieved information is sourced from verified supplier networks and digital platforms hosting bulk commodity transactions, agricultural product exchanges, and industry-specific databases.

[0038] Once the data is collected, the collected data is analyzed using embedded pattern recognition tools to identify which product categories are gaining traction in specific global regions. The supplier analysis module also enables comparison between local supply volumes and global demand projections, thereby assisting exporters in aligning their offerings with emerging trends.

[0039] Based on this comparative analysis, the supplier analysis module generates actionable insights that help exporters tailor their product portfolios, adjust inventory, or initiate contact with buyers whose demand profiles closely align with the exporter's capabilities. By aggregating and analyzing supplier-side data in the context of international demand, the supplier analysis module acts as a decision-support tool for exporters.

[0040] To connect with logistics companies, a logistics optimization module is included in the system that is configured to freight forwarders, and shipping service providers in order to access real-time shipping data. The purpose of logistics optimization module is to support exporters of agricultural and processed foods by offering tools that assist in route planning, cost estimation, and shipment tracking.

[0041] The logistics optimization module retrieves data such as available shipping schedules, carrier options, transit durations and current freight charges. By maintaining live connections with multiple logistics platforms and APIs, the logistics optimization module ensures that exporters receive up-to-date information about international shipping services that match their delivery requirements and destination countries.

[0042] Based on the retrieved data, the logistics optimization module performs route optimization by analyzing multiple delivery paths and selecting the most efficient option in terms of cost, time, and reliability. In addition to route planning, the logistics optimization module includes a cost estimation function that calculates expected shipping expenses based on destination, weight, volume, selected carrier, and optional services such as refrigeration or priority handling.

[0043] The logistics optimization module also supports integration with shipment tracking services, enabling exporters to monitor delivery status and receive alerts in case of delays, customs holds, or route changes to ensure transparency and allowing for timely interventions if logistical issues arise.

[0044] The logistics optimization module further includes a function that provides real-time tracking updates to exporters. This feature is intended to ensure timely delivery of agricultural and processed food consignments to international buyers and to maintain transparency across the supply chain.

[0045] To establish secure connections with national and international government trade portals a compliance module is included in the system. The primary purpose of the compliance module is to ensure that exporters of agricultural and processed foods remain compliant with the legal, regulatory, and procedural requirements associated with cross-border trade.

[0046] The compliance module retrieves regulatory data including export licensing requirements, product-specific trade restrictions, country-of-origin declaration sand documentation guidelines from relevant government sources. Once connected, the compliance module continuously monitors regulatory updates and alerts exporters of any changes that may impact their operations.

[0047] The compliance module also assists exporters in verifying whether their shipments meet the importing country's entry conditions by matching product details with applicable rules. If non-compliance risks are detected such as missing certifications or mislabeled goods, the system flags them for corrective action before dispatch. Furthermore, the compliance module provides automated checklists and step-by-step guides to help exporters prepare the required documentation and meet regulatory milestones.

[0048] To evaluate the credibility of international buyers, the system further includes an AI-based buyer ranking module that is designed by applying machine learning features to multiple credibility indicators. The purpose of the AI-based buyer ranking module is to help exporters of agricultural and processed foods avoid fraudulent or unreliable trade partners by generating risk-informed insights.

[0049] The AI-based buyer ranking module collects and aggregates diverse data sources such as buyer trade history, payment records, financial disclosures (where available), past interactions with other exporters, and compliance records with trade norms and import regulations. Using supervised and unsupervised machine learning models, the AI-based buyer ranking module analyzes the collected data to identify behavioral patterns and statistical correlations associated with trustworthy versus high-risk buyers.

[0050] Each buyer is then assigned a risk score, which quantifies the likelihood of trade-related issues such as non-payment, fraud, or non-compliance. In addition to numerical scoring, the AI-based buyer ranking module also generate explanatory notes or risk tags to provide exporters with context for the assigned ratings.

[0051] A supply chain and payment risk module is included in the system configured to access and analyze international trade data for the purpose of assessing risks related to geopolitical instability and payment security. The supply chain and payment risk module is intended to assist exporters of agricultural and processed foods in identifying potential vulnerabilities in the export process and selecting secure methods for financial transactions.

[0052] In parallel, the supply chain and payment risk module evaluates payment security by reviewing historical trends in delayed payments, non-payments, and currency control issues associated with specific countries or buyer categories. It also checks the availability and enforceability of trade protection instruments in the buyer’s jurisdiction. The supply chain and payment risk module also provides exporters with early warnings or advisories regarding trade routes or financial risk.

[0053] A function configuring to compare agricultural products with global demand trends in order to suggest new market opportunities to exporters is also included in the system. This function is designed to assist exporters in identifying emerging regions or countries where their products are in high demand, expanding their reach and optimizing their sales strategies. By identifying gaps between product supply and international demand, the function generates insights about potential markets that are under-served or currently experiencing a surge in demand for specific agricultural or processed food products.

[0054] A fraud detection function is further included in the system, designed to flag buyers exhibiting inconsistent trade records or possessing high-risk financial profiles. The fraud detection function serves to safeguard exporters of agricultural and processed foods from engaging in transactions with potentially fraudulent or financially unstable international buyers.

[0055] Additionally, the function checks for missing or unverifiable buyer credentials, inconsistencies between declared and actual trade behaviors, and associations with blacklisted entities or jurisdictions under international sanctions. Machine learning models embedded within the function apply anomaly detection protocols to identify deviations from standard buyer behavior patterns. Buyers whose data triggers predefined risk thresholds are flagged, and their profiles are marked with warnings or verification alerts within the exporter’s interface.

[0056] An integration with escrow services is provided in the system to ensure secure payment transactions for exporters of agricultural and processed foods. By including this feature, a trusted intermediary layer in financial exchanges between exporters and international buyers, is provided, minimizing the risk of payment defaults and disputes.

[0057] The escrow integration is implemented within the supply chain and payment risk module, which is already configured to assess financial credibility and recommend secure payment methods. Based on the exporter’s preference or the buyer's risk profile, the module facilitates the initiation of escrow-backed transactions through established third-party escrow service providers.

[0058] The present invention works best in the following manner, comprising the ICEGATE Integration Module to validate exporter registration status and compliance through ICEGATE, a central portal managed by Indian Customs. The ICEGATE Integration Module retrieves trade records associated with the exporter, to generate trade performance reports which are accessible to the exporter through a reporting dashboard. The connection module is concurrently engaged to gather buyer data from international trade platforms. An AI engine processes this data to rank buyers according to order frequency, reliability, and region-specific behavior. Filtering is applied to emphasize buyers with high feedback ratings and consistent order volumes, ensuring exporters are matched with credible and profitable opportunities. Simultaneously, the supplier analysis module scans global supplier and market trend databases to understand international demand for specific agricultural or processed food products. The logistics optimization module connects to third-party logistics providers to retrieve real-time data on shipping routes, cost estimates, and transit duration. The compliance module operates in the background to ensure adherence to international trade regulations by interfacing with governmental trade and export compliance databases and automatically alerts the exporter of any missing certifications or regulatory updates relevant to target countries.

[0059] In continuation, further the AI-based buyer ranking module evaluates each prospective buyer’s trade history, financial soundness, and compliance record using machine learning models, enabling the exporter to prioritize low-risk engagements. To enhance financial security, the Supply Chain and Payment Risk Module recommends secure payment practices such as the use of irrevocable letters of credit or block chain-enabled contracts. The Fraud Detection Function actively scans buyer data for anomalies such as mismatched addresses, erratic order behavior, or unresolved trade disputes. Exporters are notified of suspicious activity to prevent engagement with fraudulent entities. Additionally, the system includes a Market Opportunity Suggestion Function that compares the exporter’s available products with current global demand trends to identify potential new markets. For secure transaction handling, the platform is configured to integrate with verified Escrow Services, allowing exporters to execute deals where buyer funds are held until shipment conditions are met, ensuring both parties are protected from non-performance.

[0060] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) An AI-based buyer selection system for exporters of agricultural and processed foods, comprising:

i) a ICEGATE Integration Module that connects to ICEGATE to check exporter registration and compliance, and collects trade data for analysis;
ii) a connection module that connects to international trade websites to gather buyer profiles, reviews, and transaction histories, and uses AI to rank buyers based on reliability and order volume;
iii) a supplier analysis module that connects to supplier websites to collect data on product demand and global market trends, helping match exporters with suitable international buyers;
iv) a logistics optimization module that connects to logistics companies to get real-time shipping data, optimizes shipping routes, and estimates delivery costs for exporters;
v) a compliance module that connects to government portals to ensure exporters follow trade regulations for international markets;
vi) an AI based buyer ranking module that uses machine learning to evaluate buyer credibility based on trade history, financial stability, and compliance, and provides risk scores to avoid fraud; and
vii) a supply chain and payment risk module that connects to international trade data to assess geopolitical risks and payment security, recommending safe payment methods like letters of credit or blockchain-based contracts.

2) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system further comprising a function to generate reports on trade performance using ICEGATE data, helping exporters track their export activities.

3) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system further including a function to compare agricultural products with global demand trends to suggest new market opportunities.

4) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the module filters buyer profiles based on feedback ratings and past order sizes to prioritize high-quality buyers for exporters.

5) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein a logistics module provides real-time tracking updates to exporters, ensuring timely delivery to international buyers.

6) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system further comprising a fraud detection function that flags buyers with inconsistent trade records or high-risk financial profiles.

7) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the module integrates with escrow services to ensure secure payment transactions for exporters.