International Supply Research Articles

STATE POLICY, HUMAN CAPITAL AND INTERNATIONAL ECONOMIC RELATIONS IN THE CONTEXT OF REFORMING LOCAL SELF-GOVERNMENT BODIES THROUGH DIGITALIZATION, ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND SOCIO-ECONOMIC TRANSFORMATIONS

The study examines human capital as a set of socio-economic relations and as one of the determining factors of economic growth. The main attention is paid to the analysis of opportunities to improve the quality of human capital at the local level, based on mechanisms of cooperation among stakeholders and reforming the landscape of local self-government - in particular, through the creation of innovation hubs, the implementation of digitalization projects, and the expansion of the use of artificial intelligence technologies. The opportunities and benefits of direct participation of local communities in international economic relations and global supply chains are demonstrated.

The Revised Product Liability Directive: A Law and Economics Analysis

Abstract On 12 March 2024, the European Parliament adopted the text for revising the current Product Liability Directive (revised PLD), which was implemented in 1985. The revised PLD adapted the rules for the damage caused by defective products for the challenges from digitalisation, the circular economy and international supply chains. In particular, the new rules aim to ensure that new technologies, such as AI, could be well reflected, so that residents in the European Union could be effectively protected. Conventionally, a law and economics analysis has played a crucial role in shaping product liability. The objective of this paper is to discuss the major changes in the revised PLD via the lens of insights of law and economics. In specific, we focus on the influence of these changes on multiple key elements, including deterrence effect, risk-shifting and local preferences.

Impact of Globalization on Consumer Food Behaviour: A Comprehensive Review

The current market dynamics, including consumer food behaviour, are profoundly influenced by the processes of civilizational and cultural evolution, as well as the ongoing globalization phenomena. The discourse begins with an exploration of the theoretical underpinnings of globalization and its intersection with consumer food behaviour. It further delves into the broader phenomenon of globalization in the contemporary era and elucidates its specific impacts on the dietary and purchasing habits of consumers. The reviewed studies indicate that globalization has significantly influenced various aspects of consumer food behaviour. These include changes in grocery shopping patterns, an increased frequency of fast food consumption, and a heightened interest in both comfort foods and novel dining experiences. The pervasive reach of global media, multinational food corporations, and international supply chains has facilitated the widespread availability and popularity of diverse food products and dining practices across different cultures and regions. However, globalization's impact is not unidirectional. It has also catalysed the emergence of counter-movements and alternative consumer attitudes. There is a growing preference for locally sourced and environmentally sustainable food products, reflecting a backlash against the perceived homogenizing effects of globalization. Movements such as the Slow Food movement advocate for traditional and regional cuisine as a means of preserving cultural heritage and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Additionally, heightened awareness of food safety and quality has led to an increased demand for organic and non-genetically modified food products.

Second-party international remote audit in food safety management in the context of post-pandemic developments

This study aims to evaluate the post-pandemic scenario regarding to auditing practices in the food safety management, considering the international food supply chains by means of remote or hybrid protocols auditing, as well as such practices impact in the supplier’s qualification efficiency. A bibliographical review of the published scientific articles about the experience of several countries which conducted research in order to capture the stakeholders’ perception involved in remote audits, as well as comparing with Multiple Study Cases of remote auditing carried out by the author, with a descriptive and qualitative statistics in the last twenty-four months are presented. As a result, one hundred per center remote auditing protocols may be effective as part of the process used by companies to qualify international suppliers of food supply chains by following the principles already set in the best practices identified in academic research.

Blockchain integration for enhancing sustainable development and resilience of international supply chains amid economic sanctions

Blockchain integration for enhancing sustainable development and resilience of international supply chains amid economic sanctions

The Role of Policies in Supporting the Development of Marine Logistics Industry Clusters

The maritime logistics industry cluster plays an important role in supporting global trade and international supply chains. The development of this industrial cluster can provide significant economic benefits, such as increased productivity, innovation and competitiveness. However, the formation and growth of the maritime logistics industry cluster does not occur automatically and requires government policy support. This research aims to explore the role of government policy in supporting the development of the maritime logistics industry cluster. The research methods used include literature studies, policy analysis, case studies, surveys, and data triangulation. The research results identify various policy instruments that can be used by the government, such as infrastructure development, fiscal incentives, supportive regulations, human resource training programs, investment promotion, and collaboration between stakeholders. However, policy implementation also faces challenges such as coordination between stakeholders, prioritization of infrastructure investment, development of skilled human resources, and an effective regulatory framework. The recommendations put forward include increasing coordination between stakeholders, targeted infrastructure investment, human resource training and education programs, and strengthening the regulatory framework. This research provides valuable insights for policy makers, industry players, academics and other stakeholders in efforts to develop a strong and sustainable maritime logistics industry cluster.

New development strategy of international logistics supply chain: Case study of Ningbo City

New development strategy of international logistics supply chain: Case study of Ningbo City

Study of Supply Chain Selection Strategies of Firms under Geopolitics

Based on the geopolitical perspective, the study analyzes the interaction between global trade policies and supply chain strategies, and constructs a theoretical model to explore how the tariff structure of final products is shaped by value-added content and the role of the most-favored-nation (MFN) rule and the principle of reciprocal trade in it. The findings suggest that geopolitical factors have a significant impact on international trade strategies and supply chain configurations. This theoretical framework indicates the importance for policymakers to consider geopolitical complexity in maintaining the global trade order and supply chain resilience, and promotes the construction of solid and adaptable international trade and supply chain management strategies.

Mixed-Integer Optimization for Ship Retrofitting in Green Logistics

Maritime transportation plays a pivotal role in global trade and international supply chains. However, the sector is also a significant source of emissions. One of the most promising technologies for reducing these emissions is air lubrication, which involves installing bubbles along the hull of a ship. Despite its potential, the design of cost-effective bubble-installation plans for ship fleets over the planning horizon remains unexplored in the literature. This paper addresses this gap by proposing a mathematical programming model designed to optimize the installation of bubble-based systems. We present several propositions concerning the model’s properties, supported by rigorous proofs. To validate the model’s effectiveness, we conduct a series of computational experiments. The findings demonstrate that our optimization model enables shipping companies to devise bubble-installation plans that are cost-effective. This contribution not only extends the current understanding of emission reduction technologies in maritime transportation, but also offers practical insights for their implementation.

Green hydrogen vs green ammonia: A hierarchical optimization-based integrated temporal approach for comparative techno-economic analysis of international supply chains

Recent global trends have increasingly focused on sustainable and green energy solutions,transitioning away from fossil fuels. Green hydrogen (GH) and green ammonia (GA) have emerged as promising contenders for energy carriers in international supply chains. Our manuscript delivers a thorough comparative analysis of GH and GA, acknowledging the complex interrelations among synthesis, storage, distribution, and conversion processes. This evaluation also incorporates the variability of weather, energy demand, and the delays inherent in shipping, on both hourly and seasonal scales. The study features a detailed case analysis of nine international trading routes, utilizing a hierarchical optimization framework and conducting comparative economic evaluations. Additionally, the study delves into a sensitivity analysis, exploring factors such as economies of scale and the operational constraints of water electrolyzer. One of the key findings of our research is the identification of GA as a more favorable option for an international energy carrier, particularly when considering renewable energy's seasonality and intermittency. GA's superior storage and transportation properties significantly mitigate uncertainties within the supply chain, offering a more robust solution in the context of green energy transportation and logistics. Furthermore, the techno-economic analyses survey their impact on each supply chain and reveal the interconnectedness between each supply chain element – power, conversion, storage, and transportation.

Innovative decision support tools for perishable food supply chain management

PurposeWe introduce decision support tools aimed at optimizing perishable food supply chain management, effectively balancing conflicting objectives such as the exporter’s product collection cost and the importer’s profit. This involves considering factors like perishability, selling price, discount rate, and order quantity to achieve optimal outcomes.Design/methodology/approachThis study considered a three-echelon supply chain comprising farmers, a single exporter, and a single importer providing a single, random-lifetime, perishable product under deterministic customer demand. The proposed mathematical model derived the optimal order quantity, selling price, and discount rate for the entire supply chain. This integrated optimization model treats both demand and supply sides as a multi-objective problem, employing a nonlinear program and a two-stage capacitated vehicle routing problem formulation. Numerical examples and a case study focusing on Thailand durian supply chain were conducted to illustrate the approach of the proposed model.FindingsTaking into account both the importer’s profit and the exporter’s product collection cost, the proposed integrated supply chain model and tools maximize profitability, minimizes waste, and meets demand by optimizing perishable product collection costs and proposing a discount system for selling prices.Research limitations/implicationsLimited to a single perishable product in a three-echelon international food supply chain. Future research can explore different products and supply chain contexts.Practical implicationsThe tools enhance decision-making for supply chain managers, improving efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing customer satisfaction in the perishable food industry.Social implicationsThe proposed model aids in local workforce management by forecasting required manpower for upcoming seasons. By factoring in product quality and pricing, it ensures customers receive fresh products at fair prices. Furthermore, the near-zero waste concept enhances storage conditions at importers' facilities, contributing to improved environmental hygiene.Originality/valueThe integrated model and decision support tools offer a novel approach to address complexities and conflicting objectives in perishable food supply chains, providing practical insights for researchers and practitioners.

Bilateral shock effect and alleviation strategy: a game-theoretical study in international medical devices supply chain in the pandemic context

Bilateral shock effect and alleviation strategy: a game-theoretical study in international medical devices supply chain in the pandemic context

Micro, Small, and Medium-Sized Enterprises (MSMEs): The Significant Role and Challenges in Indonesia's Economy

Abstract: Research Aims: The study aims to investigate how MSMEs—micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises—substantially impact Indonesia's economy. Methodology/design and approach: The design, methodology, and approach of this research entail an investigation of the noteworthy impact that micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) have on Indonesia's economy. The strategy uses data to back up the assertion that MSMEs are the engine of Indonesia's economy, employing more than 97% of the labour force and adding more than 61% to the nation's GDP. The categorisation of companies based on their size and assets is investigated, demonstrating the numerical dominance of micro businesses to shed light on the structure of MSMEs in Indonesia; it emphasises how MSMEs perform comparatively poorly in exports, underscoring the necessity of improving their integration into international supply networks. Most of Indonesia's economic environment comprises Micro, Small, and Medium-Sized Enterprises (MSMEs), making this sector a powerful force. This article explores how MSMEs significantly influence Indonesia and provides data to support this claim. MSMEs are the backbone of Indonesia's economic activity, employing over 97% of the country's workforce and providing more than 61 per cent of the country's GDP. Their share of the economy may appear little initially, even though they comprise 99 per cent of all businesses. Still, their reputation as crucial economic agents is cemented by their indispensable role in delivering basic commodities and services to urban and rural communities. The framework of MSMEs in Indonesia is further clarified by examining how businesses are classified according to their assets and size. Larger organisations have more resources and clout, while micro businesses predominate numerically. However, MSMEs need help beyond their financial relevance. It is imperative to address integration hurdles to promote innovation and productivity and to increase MSMEs' contribution to Indonesia's economic growth; policymakers can ensure that MSMEs continue contributing to Indonesia's financial resilience and prosperity by realising their critical role and tackling current obstacles. It will allow MSMEs to reach their full potential.

Trust and control dynamics in buyer–supplier relationships: The case of organic honey certification in Cuba

AbstractThe high complexity of international supply chain (SC) relationships requires mechanisms to build trust among stakeholders. Therefore, understanding the underlying mechanisms of developing and maintaining high trust levels in exchange relationships is essential to managing associated SC risks. Third‐party certification (TPC) is a widely used, control‐based governance mechanism in organic food production that aims to help build trust. Drawing on the concepts of trust and control, this article presents an analytical framework for assessing TPC's effects on trust–control dynamics within food SCs. By using qualitative data on a buyer–supplier relationship between Cuba and Europe, this case illustrates the mutually reinforcing relationship between trust and control. We also demonstrate how trust is built across multiple levels. By considering contextual factors, the case illustrates controls' impact on building institutional trust while also pointing out TPC's limited efficacy in enhancing collaboration in SCs.

The International Supply of Reserve Currency

The International Supply of Reserve Currency

A Systematic Literature Review (SLR): Impact of The Russian – Ukraine Conflict

This study analyzes the impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict on the Indonesian economy, with a focus on the SME sector. Through in-depth literature analysis, the research highlights the challenges faced by SMEs in dealing with disruptions in international supply chains, dependence on imports from Russia and Ukraine, and energy price fluctuations. The impact is evident through additional pressures on SMEs involved in international trade, both in terms of disrupted flow of goods and services and currency fluctuations. To address these challenges, SMEs need to adopt business strategies focusing on sustainability, supply chain risk management, and energy efficiency to minimize the negative effects of the Russia-Ukraine conflict and remain competitive in domestic and international markets.

Economic Growth and Spatial Analysis in Transport Corridors: A Preliminary Review

Abstract The construction and development of international transport corridors have become a means of cross-border space governance, promoting the flexibility of international industrial chains and supply chains. Due to the uncertainty of cooperation, the development of international transport corridors entails a long-term and complex system of engineering. Transport corridors can generate wider economic benefits and costs through their effects on a potentially diverse set of development outcomes, such as economic growth, poverty, jobs, equity, environmental quality, and economic resilience. The focus on roads, rails, and waterways is justified, as transport corridors based on these modes have clearer potential for economic spillovers than, for example, airline routes. The current paper describes a multi-method approach involving spatial and non-spatial analysis to investigate spatial disparity along a proposed corridor and examine its integration within the existing settlement structure. The conceptual structure for the review is guided by a simple canonical model describing the policy maker’s problem in maximizing the net wider economic benefits of corridors. The meta-analysis confirms that characteristics of individual studies, as well as the placement and design of transport infrastructures, systematically influence the findings of corridor studies. It also shows that, on average, estimated impacts of corridor interventions on economic welfare and equity tend to be beneficial, while they are often detrimental to environmental quality, and possibly also to social inclusion.

INNOVATIVE ANTI-CRISIS MANAGEMENT AT TRADE ENTERPRISES IN THE CONTEXT OF EUROPEAN INTEGRATION AND RISKS IN UKRAINE

The article examines the activities of commercial enterprises during the crisis caused by the war, the coronavirus, and the European integration aspirations of Ukraine as a candidate for membership in the European Union. Despite the significant number of publications on anti-crisis policy, there are still unresolved problems related to risk management in the process of ensuring the anti-crisis policy of trade enterprises in the global economic uncertainty. Most of the companies in this sector suffered collapse and bankruptcy due to the complexity of operating conditions during this difficult period: power cuts, labour migration, changes in international and domestic supply conditions, selection of new suppliers, destruction of road and warehouse infrastructure, and the search for new logistics routes. The aim of this article is to offer practical recommendations that will help retailers strengthen their resilience, adapt to the changing environment through innovative crisis management measures, and quickly recover from the crisis to reach or exceed the previous level of financial and operational stability. The research methodology involves a two-pronged approach: a qualitative study through a literature review and interviews, which gives an idea of crisis management, and quantitative methods, including surveys and analysis of financial indicators. The article examines the activities of trade enterprises in the crisis period of the pre-war years, i.e., the time of the pandemic's impact on the dynamics of trade. It analyses the losses of retailers during the war. The objectives of crisis financial management are defined. The relationship between crisis management and the solvency and financial stability of trade enterprises is determined. The impact of insolvency of trade enterprises on the payment of wages to employees is identified. The authors propose a number of anti-crisis measures for trade enterprises in the context of wartime and a global pandemic, such as transition to online trading using marketing strategies and plans, cost reduction, effective inventory management, modelling the sensitivity of financial indicators to changes in the external environment, and search for innovative opportunities. Attention is focused on the growing role of human capital in business recovery, including the importance of staff training and professional development, improvement of motivation systems and human resource management. The paper suggests ways to increase labour productivity, such as process automation and the effective use of data analytics. Results. Thus, the objective need for innovative tools for crisis management of trade enterprises becomes a key element of research in the context of European integration and wartime.

Research on the Development Path of International Supply Chain Hub City Based on the Manufacturing Industry in Chengdu

Chengdu, following China’s development vision, endeavors to evolve into an international supply chain hub centred on manufacturing. By developing an all-encompassing logistics hub that bridges domestic and global supply chains, it aims to facilitate seamless transactions and goods circulation, exemplified by the China-Europe Railway Express project. Bolstering its status as a national logistics hub of multiple types-land port, airport, production and trade services-Chengdu supports advanced manufacturing industries, including electronics, equipment, pharmacy, new materials, and green food. Despite modest trade volumes compared to leading cities, its foreign investment in manufacturing exceeds and foreign trade has grown significantly. To enhance its position, Chengdu must deepen the integration of logistics with manufacturing, leverage its regional connections, especially with the US, Europe and Asian neighbors, and learn from best practices in logistics hub development. The city’s journey towards becoming an international supply chain hub requires continuous improvement in infrastructure, strategic alignment, and fostering an environment conducive to global commerce.

Dynamic correction of dual−energy x-ray absorptiometry images improves chain speed prediction of lamb composition in abattoirs

A prototype, on-line Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometer (DXA) has shown high precision of the prediction of carcass composition for the purpose of improved sheep meat grading in the Australian lamb supply chain, albeit with small inaccuracies over time. These inaccuracies were present across hours, and more significantly across days, which were unacceptable for any accreditation of this device as an objective carcass measurement tool in Australia. This inaccuracy demanded the creation of a novel image−processing algorithm for the prototype DXA. This DXA was tested for repeatability of predictions of lamb carcass composition over minutes, hours, and days, using two developed image processing algorithms. There was high immediate repeatability for both algorithms when predicting lean muscle % in 40 lamb carcasses, with a maximum CV of 0.65% over five repeated scans. There was a decrease in the CV of the prediction of lean muscle % of 30 lambs scanned three times over a 48-h period from 5.93 to 1.19% when the superior algorithm was used. The inaccuracies of lean muscle % predictions were associated with increases in the unattenuated space pixel values in DXA images. Improvements of the current algorithm are required to demonstrate repeatability over time for the purpose of accreditation within the Australian sheep meat industry, and for possible expansion of this technology into international supply chains.