Supply Chain Management Research Articles

STATE REGULATION OF THE EXTRACTION OF CRITICAL MINERALS AS A DOMINANT COMPONENT OF ACHIEVING THE GOALS OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT AND STRENGTHENING THE ECONOMIC SECURITY OF THE STATE

The article states that the climate crisis and measures to mitigate it in recent years have significantly changed the energy landscape of the countries of the world and the configuration of the investment portfolio. Long-term investments in fossil fuels have been replaced by investments in environmentally friendly technologies, renewable sources of electricity, and smart systems for its distribution and storage. It is emphasized that even with full support of investments, plans for the decarburization of the electric power industry may remain unattainable, as the global reserves of «critical minerals», which are absolutely necessary for the transition to ecologically clean electric power, are noticeably decreasing and the demand continues to grow relentlessly. The scenarios developed by the International Energy Agency for the further transformation of the electric power sector to a low-carbon economy model were reviewed and briefly characterized: the scenario of declared policy (STEPS), the scenario of declared obligations (APS), and the scenario of net zero emissions by 2050 (NZE). The main aspects of each of the scenarios are outlined: the volume of demand for «critical minerals» their geographical concentration of extraction, and processing. It is emphasized that the world leader in the extraction and processing of «critical minerals» is the PRC, which dictates the «rules of the game» to the majority of the world's countries. Therefore, the issue of supplies of “critical minerals” is quite painful. It was emphasized that critical minerals market participants hope to reduce total dependence through new mining projects in different geographical regions, facilitating cross-investment opportunities between partner countries, and strengthening cooperation through initiatives such as the Mineral Security Partnership and the implementation of financial instruments. The potential of Ukraine's «critical minerals» and its ability to reduce the dependence of EU countries on the People's Republic of China are characterized. The main challenges of the development of the extractive industry in Ukraine are identified, and the main vectors of the Roadmap of the partnership between Ukraine and the EU regarding critical raw materials for 2023-2024 are outlined. It was emphasized that in order for Ukraine not to become only a supplier of raw materials, it is necessary to develop the processing of raw materials and the production of products with added value. It is emphasized that such localization requires much wider efforts of the government than the list of measures in the field of regulating the extraction of «critical minerals» defined by the latest legislative acts. The author emphasizes the need to develop a comprehensive system of incentives and introduce new opportunities for stabilization and sustainable development of Ukraine's economy in order to ensure sustainability and progress towards sustainable resource management and optimization of supply chains for critical raw materials. Proposals have been developed for climate-smart mining of «critical minerals» in Ukraine in the near future.

The impact of industry 5.0 on supply chain performance

The transformative potential of Industry 5.0 (I5.0) to enhance supply chain performance (SCP) has become a compelling focus for numerous supply chain (SC) managers. This research explores the profound impact of I5.0 on SCP, highlighting three key dimensions: Efficiency, Visibility, and Responsiveness. It illuminates the dynamic interplay among these dimensions, demonstrating that improved visibility leads to heightened responsiveness and efficiency. While the enabling technologies of I5.0 hold significant potential for diverse applications, this study zeroes in on seven I5.0 technologies identified as highly impactful within the SC context. A closed-ended questionnaire was employed to collect 105 valid responses from managers, experts, and practitioners who are well-versed in I5.0 within the SC domain. Data analysis was performed using Partial Least Squares-Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) with SmartPLS 4. The findings reveal both positive direct and indirect relationships between I5.0 and SCP, emphasizing how I5.0 reshapes performance dynamics and can expedite the adoption of I5.0.

The Current Situation and Optimization Path of Enterprise Supply Chain Management Construction in the Context of Digitalization

Abstract: The advancement of information technology has resulted in a rapid rise of a new phase of technical and industrial revolution, propelling the global shift from an industrial economy to a digital economy at an accelerated rate. Digital transformation has become an irreversible and pervasive tendency in contemporary society. Despite the significant growth of China's economy, the industrial supply chain is not operating at its highest efficiency. To achieve sustainable cost reduction and efficiency, enterprises need to promote digital transformation and supply chain upgrading. By doing so, enterprises can optimize resource allocation among different links in the supply chain and enhance the quality of their development. This study conducted an investigation of the value benefits, problems, and difficulties of enterprise supply chain digital transformation, using Jingdong as an example. The following article aims to provide a credible reference for organizations by discussing the successful paths and measures of digitizing the supply chain, using Jingdong's experience and activities in supply chain digital transformation as a reference.

Do supply chain finance and trade digitization matter in mitigating financial instability in supply chains? An information processing theory view

ABSTRACT This research is grounded in the information processing theory and aims to assess the impact of supply chain financial instability and supply chain management capabilities (e.g. supply chain finance and trade digitization) on the performance of a focal firm. In particular, we consider the impact of supply chain financial instability as information processing needs and supply chain finance and trade digitization as information processing capabilities. We discuss how the fit between the information processing capabilities and the information processing needs improves a firm’s performance, which results in competitive advantage. Path analyses were performed using data collected from 199 manufacturing enterprises in China. The results suggest that when supply chain finance and trade digitization are fitted with the needs to mitigate the impact of supply chain financial instability, a focal firm’s performance can be improved through reduced costs, enhanced efficiency, and bolstered market value. These value-adding outcomes would help gain competitive advantage.

Research on International Trade Development Path of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises in the Context of E-commerce Trade

With the rapid development of Internet technology and the advancement of globalization, e-commerce has become an important part of international trade activities. In this context, how to expand the international market and enhance the competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises with the help of e-commerce trading platform has become a hot issue in current research. This paper first summarizes the development of e-commerce trade and its impact on the international trade of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and then analyzes the current situation and main problems of the international trade of small and medium-sized enterprises. On this basis, it puts forward the development path and strategy of SMEs' international trade under the background of e-commerce trade, including establishing e-commerce trade platform, strengthening supply chain management, utilizing cross-border e-commerce, strengthening brand building, and innovating service mode. This paper aims to provide theoretical support and practical guidance for SMEs to carry out international trade under the background of e-commerce trade.

Effect of Green Supply Chain Innovation Alliance on Performance of Manufacturing Firms in Nairobi County

Purpose: The general objective of the study was to determine influence of green supply chain innovation alliances on performance of manufacturing firms, in Nairobi County Kenya. Methodology: The study was informed by Social Exchange Theory, Transaction Cost Theory, Resource-Based view and Resource Dependency Theory. The research design for this study was an explanatory survey research design; this is primarily a positivism approach. The population for the study will constitute manufacturing firms in Kenya. Thus, the unit of observation was 516 procurement managements from 516 manufacturing firms. The research employed stratified and simple random to select a sample of 225. This study used structured questionnaires to collect data relevant to the study. Descriptive analysis such as means, standard deviation and variance. Findings: linear regression models showed that green supply chain innovation alliances have a positive and statistically significant influence on firm performance, highlighting their essential role in enhancing success for manufacturing firms. A strong partnership with suppliers and specialized expertise in green supply chain management are crucial for this improvement. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Therefore, the study recommends that organizations actively strengthen their green supply chain innovation alliances by establishing joint sustainability initiatives and creating regular collaboration forums with suppliers to share best practices and innovative solutions.

Caught in the deglobalisation crosswind? De-risking by “China+1” or “In-China-For-China”

PurposeForeign firms in China, particularly those from the Global West, are in a difficult position as deglobalisation and strained international relations create risk. This paper offers research avenues on how operations and supply chain management scholars can analyse the risk factors, de-risking practices, and de-risking outcomes of foreign firms in China.Design/methodology/approachThis paper is primarily based on interviews with managers of foreign firms’ subsidiaries and joint ventures in China between late 2019 and early 2024 and employs institutional theory to develop a conceptual framework.FindingsSix risk factors motivating foreign firms to consider “China+1” (diversification and multi-sourcing) or “In-China-For-China” (localisation with potential bifurcation) are identified. Four pathways focusing on politics, locations, technologies, and people enable further investigation of these de-risking strategies.Originality/valueThis is the first paper to take a deeper look at perceptions, worries, and considerations of foreign firms in China and offers specific recommendations for impactful research.

Supply Chain Management in Smart City Manufacturing Clusters: An Alternative Approach to Urban Freight Mobility with Electric Vehicles

The development of green production types such as personalized production and shared manufacturing, which use additive technologies in city multifloor manufacturing clusters (CMFMCs), has led to an increase in last-mile parcel delivery (LMPD) activity. This study investigates the integration of electric vehicles and crowdshipping systems into smart CMMCs to improve urban logistics operations related to the distribution of products to consumers. The aim of this study is to improve the LMPD performance of these integrated systems and to provide alternative solutions for sustainable city logistics using the potential of crowdshipping and vehicle sharing fleets (VSFs) in the city logistics nodes (CLNs) of CMFMCs. The issues presented by the loading–unloading operations and sustainable crowdshipping scenarios for LMPD in CMFMCs are considered. This paper presents a new performance evaluation model for crowdshipping LMPD in CMFMCs using VSFs. The case study shows that the proposed model enables the analysis of LMPD performance in CMFMCs, taking into account their finite production capacity, and that it facilitates the planning of cargo turnover and the structure of VSFs consisting of e-bicycles, e-cars, and e-light commercial vehicles (e-LCVs). The model is verified based on a case study for sustainable LMPD scenarios using VSFs. The proposed model enables the planning of both short- and long-term logistics operations with the specified performance indicator of VSF usage in CMFMCs. The validity of using the integrated potential of crowdshipping and vehicle sharing services for LMPD under demand uncertainty in CMFMCs is discussed. This study should prove useful for decision-making and planning processes related to LMPD in CMFMCs and large cities.

EVALUATION OF THE AUTOMOBILE CHIP CRISIS IN THE CONTEXT OF CRISIS MANAGEMENT

The automotive industry is a rapidly evolving sector that relies heavily on technological advancements. Chip technologies are essential for various automotive systems, including control mechanisms and infotainment systems. In this context, the chip crisis has exposed vulnerabilities in the supply chain and the industry's dependance on chip supplies. The primary issue of the crisis is the bottleneck facing automakers, which negatively impacts production processes and sales due to chip shortages. The purpose of this study is to analyze the chip crisis in the automotive industry and its implications for crisis management. The crisis arises from a shortage of chips in the supply chain, which has adverse effects on automakers. This research highlights the significance of this particular crisis by examining its impact on crisis management practices. It evaluates the causes, effects, and management strategies of the crisis from a crisis management perspective. The scale of this issue demonstrates that chip supply challenges affect not only the automotive industry but also other sectors. This study emphasizes the importance of supply chain and crisis management practices in the automotive industry by analyzing the causes, effects, and management strategies of the crisis. It concludes that companies, especially in the automotive sector, need to adopt more proactive approaches in response to such crises.

COLLABORATIVE SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT IN THE SHARING ECONOMY: AN EMPIRICAL RESEARCH

This study examines the impact of the sharing economy on collaborative supply chain management among Turkish international trade firms. The sharing economy, which involves temporary access to underutilized resources via digital platforms, has challenged traditional supply chain models, necessitating resilient and flexible collaborations. The research utilizes the Inter-organizational Relationships (IOR), Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), and Resource-Based View (RBV) frameworks, highlighting dynamic capabilities. Through structural equation modeling and expert interviews, the findings reveal that trust and information sharing are essential, but their effects on e-collaboration are complex. Trust negatively correlates with e-collaboration, indicating that electronic platforms may mediate trust in low-trust environments. On the other hand, performance expectancy and facilitating conditions significantly boost e-collaboration adoption. The study identifies e-collaboration as a dynamic capability, improving operational performance, customer/supplier satisfaction, growth, and profitability. This research contributes theoretically by integrating organizational and individual perspectives on e-collaboration and elucidates the intricate relationships between trust, information sharing, and technology in supply chains. Practical recommendations are provided for leveraging technological innovations to enhance trust and information sharing in collaborative supply chains.

A Novel Autoencoder-Integrated Clustering Methodology for Inventory Classification: A Real Case Study for White Goods Industry

This article presents an inventory classification method that provides more accurate results in the white goods factory, which will contribute to sustainability, sustainability economics, and supply chain management targets. A novel inventory classification application is presented with real-world data. Two different datasets are used, and these datasets are compared to each other. These larger dataset is Stock Keeping Unit (SKU)-based (6.032 SKUs), and the smaller one is product-group-based (270 product groups). In the first phase, Artificial Intelligence (AI) clustering methods that have not been used in the field of inventory classification, to our knowledge, are applied to these datasets; the results are obtained and compared using K-Means, Gaussian mixture, agglomerative clustering, and spectral clustering methods. In the second stage, an autoencoder is separately hybridized with the AI clustering methods to develop a novel approach to inventory classification. Fuzzy C-Means (FCM) is used in the third step to classify inventories. At the end of the study, these nine different methodologies (“K-Means, Gaussian mixture, agglomerative clustering, spectral clustering” with and without the autoencoder and Fuzzy C-Means) are compared using two different datasets. It is shown that the proposed new hybrid method gives much better results than classical AI methods.

IDENTIFIKASI FAKTOR DAN TANTANGAN DI SEKTOR PERUNGGASAN UNTUK MENINGKATKAN KELINCAHAN BISNIS DI AGROINDUSTRI INDONESIA: TINJAUAN LITERATUR

The poultry industry in Indonesia, especially the poultry sector, plays a crucial role in ensuring national food security by providing essential animal protein sources. Therefore, business agility is highly necessary to address fluctuating demand issues that can change unpredictably. Many industries in this sector have faced setbacks due to unforeseen shifts in demand. However, in implementing business agility, numerous factors need consideration, such as traditional organizational structures, bureaucratic processes that impede change, and a corporate culture resistant to transformation. This research aims to identify various challenges faced by companies in achieving business agility through a literature review using Publish or Perish software and manual searches on Google Scholar, resulting in the selection and analysis of 23 relevant journals. The findings from the literature review indicate that effective supply chain management, innovative management leadership, technological automation, adaptability to unforeseen events, investment in employee development, and a deep understanding of customer needs are key factors influencing business agility in the poultry industry in Indonesia.

Value of blockchain for scope 3 carbon disclosure: The moderating role of data processing technologies

Disclosing carbon emissions in Scope 3 is essential for mitigating pollution and the associated environmental damage, and blockchain can enhance the disclosure. However, the effect of blockchain on Scope 3 carbon disclosure remains unclear due to a lack of empirical evidence. This paper investigates the value of blockchain for Scope 3 carbon disclosure and examines whether this value can be strengthened by integrating data processing technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and big data analytics (BDA). Drawing upon the coordination theory, we posit that blockchain as a recording and tracing technology can improve the coordination among supply chain members on collecting carbon emissions data, thereby facilitating firms' Scope 3 carbon disclosure. Furthermore, data processing technologies enable efficient utilization and management of the collected data, potentially coordinating with blockchain to enhance Scope 3 carbon disclosure. We test these relationships using regression analysis based on a sample of 422 observations for Chinese listed firms during 2021 and 2022. The results show that blockchain adoption is positively associated with a firm's Scope 3 carbon disclosure. In addition, adopting each of the three data processing technologies—AI, cloud computing, and BDA—further strengthens the positive relationship. This study contributes to academic knowledge and evidence on blockchain and sustainable supply chain management with practical suggestions for managing carbon emissions at the supply chain level through the combined adoption of blockchain and data processing technologies.

Retraction Note: Innovations in supply chain management for sustainable energy transition: lessons from leading enterprises

Retraction Note: Innovations in supply chain management for sustainable energy transition: lessons from leading enterprises

Research on Procurement Cost Control Based on Supply Chain Management

In modern enterprise management, strengthening the control and management of procurement processes can effectively reduce operational costs. However, with the continuous reform and improvement of China’s market economy system, competition among supply chain enterprises has intensified. The traditional procurement management model is no longer able to meet the needs of enterprise development in the current era. As a result, procurement management based on supply chain management has emerged, offering significant improvements in the scientific management of procurement processes. It has become an important means of promoting the long-term development of enterprises. This paper primarily analyzes and studies procurement cost control based on supply chain management, providing insights for reference.

Discovering Islamic marketing potential in shaping blockchain-­based halal logistic services: a bibliometric analysis

Purpose This paper aims to examine the Islamic marketing literature to uncover potential customer adoption behaviours and enhance the effectiveness of blockchain-based halal logistics services in catering to customer demands. The findings of this paper provide substantial contributions to the realms of both halal logistics services and Islamic marketing literature, delineating future paths for research. By delving into halal logistics practices, integration procedures and service provider performance, this paper assists stakeholders in enhancing halal logistics services to meet the changing demands of customers effectively. Design/methodology/approach This paper uses a systematic review incorporating bibliometric analysis to examine past and contemporary research topics, selecting and appraising contributions while analysing and consolidating data. A methodical approach has been used to identify, assess and incorporate pertinent studies on Islamic characteristics, traceability technology, blockchain integration and halal logistics practices. Findings After screening and analysing 139 selected documents with the VOS viewer, it is evident that among a 1,000 keywords, 15 stand out in terms of frequency and link strength. The research highlights the considerable academic interest in themes such as “blockchain”, “halal logistics” and “supply chain”, underscoring their importance. The findings of this paper help bridge the gap in Islamic marketing by linking technology with religious values. It suggests that the integration of blockchain technology in halal logistics enhances operational efficiency while aligning with both operational and Islamic marketing principles, promoting ethical conduct and transparency as key enablers. Practical implications The theoretical significance of this paper lies in establishing a correlation among three key research domains: technology, symbolised by blockchain; customer-centric operations, incorporating the halal supply chain and logistics within Islamic marketing. The outcomes reflect consumer behaviour and Shariah compliance. This integration has the potential to introduce innovative theoretical frameworks that encompass religious ethics in marketing, logistics and technological advancements. Originality/value This paper comprehensively analyses the intersection between blockchain technology, halal logistics, supply chain management and Islamic marketing. The paper has comprehensively analysed previous studies and outlined the future research path for blockchain technology in halal logistics and its application in Islamic marketing literature.

Applying a Theory of Change for Human Resources Development in Public Health Supply Chains in Rwanda.

The health supply chain (SC) system in Rwanda experienced a number of workforce-related challenges, including insufficient skilled supply chain management (SCM) professionals with the necessary competencies. The Human Resources for Supply Chain Management (HR4SCM) Theory of Change (TOC) provides a methodology to assess human resources (HR) management systems by explaining the preconditions required to achieve optimized workforce performance. We applied this model to design interventions to strengthen the Rwanda health SC workforce. We compared conditions in the health SC HR system in Rwanda with the 60 outcomes described as necessary for optimized workforce performance in the HR4SCM TOC model. We used a survey and participatory workshop at the central level, followed by structured interviews (N=35) with SC professionals in health centers, hospitals, and regional warehouses (N=20) in Southern Province and Kigali City to identify which outcomes already existed in the Rwandan HR system and which outcomes required strengthening through targeted interventions. We used focus groups (N=2) to refine interventions. We identified that 31 of the 60 outcomes were not sufficiently in place in the Rwandan health SC HR system. SCM workers had gaps in the technical and managerial competencies and did not have access to adequate training and professional development opportunities for certain required competencies. An SCM career path did not exist, and education was not available for all required SCM qualifications. Fourteen of these outcomes were prioritized for strengthening. We designed 20 workforce interventions with the Ministry of Health to address these deficiencies and selected indicators to monitor the interventions. Applying this HR TOC model enabled a systematic process to identify gaps, develop and prioritize interventions, and select indicators. Practitioners designing and evaluating SC workforce interventions should consider applying this methodology to design more effective, theory-driven interventions to improve SC workforce performance.

Blockchain and Digital Twins in Smart Industry 4.0: The Use Case of Supply Chain-A Review of Integration Techniques and Applications

The Fourth Industrial Revolution has transformed industries and supply chains by integrating advanced operations, tools, and logistics services. Despite these advancements, challenges persist, particularly in ensuring data dependability, security, and operational efficiency. Digital twins (DTs), which replicate real-world components and processes, have emerged as essential tools for enhancing predictive analytics, simulation, and product lifecycle management in Industry 4.0. However, traditional DT development relies on centralized systems, which are vulnerable to data tampering and security breaches, especially in the management of transaction logs and historical data. To address these challenges, this review provides a comprehensive analysis of the current state of integrating blockchain with DTs. Using a qualitative research methodology, including desk research, case studies, and interviews with industry experts, we analyze various blockchain-based DT applications across industries and specifically in supply chain management. The findings reveal that blockchain-enhanced DTs can significantly improve data integrity, traceability, and security, thus boosting operational efficiency and quality control in supply chains. Additionally, this study identifies key integration techniques and the role of blockchain in automating processes through smart contracts. This review provides insights into the practical implications of blockchain-based DTs, highlighting their potential to enhance the reliability and scalability of Industry 4.0 operations.

Reshoring concepts: definitions and a structured bibliometric review

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to clearly mark the clusters in the related literature using bibliometric analysis and draw useful implications for the academic research purposes especially in the stream of Supply Chain Management (SCM).Design/methodology/approachBy employing rigorous selection criteria, sample articles were selected for synthesizing and conducting a bibliometric analysis. This paper tries to identify the significance of the concept of reshoring with the aspect of SCM, operations, logistics etc. Starting from sample selection, systematic selection criteria has been used to generate the database, using Scopus. The sample size was 184. Using VOSViewer, statistical and graphical representations were generated for clusters in the literature that will be useful for judging the trends of research under shoring concepts.FindingsFindings show that unclear difference compared to other supply chain concepts obstructs further theory development within reshoring concepts. To address this challenge, the review categorizes themes and defines boundaries. Based on the analysis findings, this paper advocates for additional research in areas that are crucial but have received limited or no attention. Specifically, there is a need for action research on motivations, governance modes, and location selection concerning reshoring decisions.Research limitations/implicationsThis review has a few limitations. The absence of publications in other language, than English, may result in a significant loss of knowledge. This research paper cited a few relevant publications in the form of conference papers, industry reports, books, and book chapters. Nonetheless, they were excluded from the organized bibliometric audit. To further advance the knowledge in this field, exploratory longitudinal case studies will bring to focus the changes on manufacturing strategies using the shoring and reshoring stages.Practical implicationsA current example of this is a French company named Stil (Terzian, 2020) which brought its glass thermometer production back to its home after the unexpected closure of its suppliers from China. Another Italian firm has restarted production of disposal bio-degradable face masks after 15 years to compete with low-cost alternatives from China (Greco, 2020). Reshoring concepts are now under consideration of organizations including Boeing, Bosch, Phillips and more.Originality/valueTo the best of our knowledge, this represents one of the earliest efforts to conceptualize and define reshoring concepts, aiming to distinguish them from one another appropriately. To accomplish this, the earlier demarcated clusters precede this section’s classification of reshoring concepts illustrated in Table 8. Based on the synthesis of definitions and thematic clusters above, we have concluded the literature review in this emerging field. It is intended to contribute to theory development and practitioner support in reshoring decisions by clarifying the dimensions.

Navigating industrial performance: Impact of corporate social responsibility on sustainable development with moderation of reverse supply chain management

AbstractAlthough several studies ensured the essentiality of corporate social responsibility (CSR) with respect to sustainable development (SD) from various domains, worldwide. Nonetheless, this study explores the nexus among CSR practices (i.e., social responsibility, environmental responsibility, employee responsibility, customer responsibility, supplier responsibility, and govt. rules & regulation responsibility) on SD (i.e., social development, economic development, and environmental development) from the mainstream of Chinese industrial sector drawing on stakeholder theory. Second, this study investigates the moderating influence of reverse supply chain management (RSCM) to sense how these forces may impact the association between CSR and SD. After evaluation and by implementing a structural approach, the results affirmed the positive linkages between CSR and SD along with each CSR's dimension toward sustainable development. Finally, the study confirmed a positive connection of RSCM as a moderator between CSR and SD. Besides, certain implications are listed for the management along with shortcomings and future directions for academic scholars to extend studies for additional validation across the globe.