Supply Chain Security Research Articles

Integrating Blockchain Technology in Pharmaceutical Supply Chains

This paper presents a transformative approach to enhancing transparency, security, and traceability. By utilizing a decentralized ledger system, stakeholders can access real-time data about drug provenance and distribution, thereby increasing consumer confidence and improving regulatory compliance. Existing pharmaceutical supply chains face significant challenges, including counterfeit drugs, lack of visibility, and inefficiencies in tracking products through complex logistics networks. These issues lead to financial losses, compromised patient safety, and regulatory penalties. This study proposes a novel framework, the Pharmaceutical Supply Chain using Blockchain Technology (PSC-BCT), designed to address these existing challenges. The PSC-BCT framework leverages smart contracts, distributed ledgers, and IoT integration to create a secure, transparent, and efficient supply chain ecosystem. This framework enables all participants, from manufacturers to pharmacists, to share and verify transaction data, thereby enhancing accountability and reducing the risk of fraud. The proposed method is utilized to streamline operations, reduce delays, and enhance data integrity within the pharmaceutical supply chain. By ensuring that every transaction is recorded immutably, stakeholders can verify product authenticity and track the drug's journey from production to the end consumer. The findings indicate that the PSC-BCT framework significantly improves supply chain transparency and efficiency while reducing instances of counterfeit drugs. Furthermore, the implementation of blockchain technology fosters trust among stakeholders and enhances compliance with regulatory standards, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes and safety.

Blockchain in Enterprise Resource Planning Systems: A Comprehensive Review of Emerging Trends, Challenges, and Future Perspectives

Abstract This research paper conducts a systematic review of the integration of blockchain technology with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, a burgeoning field at the intersection of advanced technology and business management. The primary objective is to bridge the knowledge gap by synthesizing existing literature, providing insights into the current state, challenges, and potential of blockchain in enhancing ERP systems. The study follows a structured methodology involving four key stages: Literature Retrieval, Literature Screening, Biblio-metric Analysis, and Content Analysis. A comprehensive literature search in the Scopus database resulted in the identification and analysis of 250 scholarly articles, narrowed down to 66 relevant publications. The findings highlight a significant trend towards decentralized ERP solutions, driven by blockchain’s promise of enhanced security, transparency, and efficiency. Key areas impacted by blockchain integration include supply chain management, accounting, security, traceability, purchasing, and process automation within ERP systems. The bibliometric analysis reveals a growing academic interest in this domain, with a focus on scalability, data security, and interoperability. However, the integration faces challenges such as technical complexity, cultural resistance, and regulatory uncertainties. The study concludes that while blockchain presents transformative opportunities for ERP systems, realizing this potential requires overcoming substantial technical and organizational hurdles. Future research should concentrate on developing scalable, interoperable blockchain solutions, tailored to specific industry needs and compliant with regulatory standards, thereby facilitating widespread adoption and maximizing the benefits of blockchain in ERP systems.

A comparative analysis of supply chain factors impacting COVID-19 vaccine security in high-income countries (HICs) and low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs)

IntroductionThe COVID-19 pandemic focused attention on the importance of vaccine security to national security. Demand for vaccines far exceeded supply when the first COVID-19 vaccines were released. Growing data suggest...

Management of the Fuel Supply Chain and Energy Security in Poland

Management of the Fuel Supply Chain and Energy Security in Poland

Revolutionizing Freight Management: A Synergistic Approach Using IoT and Blockchain Technologies

This article explores the transformative potential of integrating Internet of Things (IoT) and blockchain technologies in freight tracking and management. Traditional freight tracking methods often suffer from inaccuracies, delays, and lack of transparency, leading to inefficiencies across the supply chain. Integrating IoT devices, such as GPS trackers, RFID tags, and condition monitoring sensors, with blockchain's secure and immutable ledger system offers a promising solution to these challenges. This article examines the current state of freight tracking, the fundamentals of IoT and blockchain technologies, and their combined application in creating real-time, secure, and transparent freight management systems. It discusses the benefits of this integrated approach, including enhanced visibility, improved efficiency, reduced disputes, and more agile supply chain operations. The article also addresses the challenges and considerations in implementing such systems, including technical hurdles, data privacy concerns, scalability issues, and regulatory requirements. Finally, it explores future prospects and research directions, such as the integration with AI and machine learning and the potential for expanding applications beyond tracking to areas like autonomous logistics. Through a comprehensive analysis of current implementations and future possibilities, this article provides valuable insights into how IoT-blockchain integration is poised to revolutionize the freight industry, offering a roadmap for more efficient, secure, and transparent global supply chains.

Addressing Supply Chain Security Risks through Security Transparency

Addressing Supply Chain Security Risks through Security Transparency

Analysis and forecasting of the importance of smart contracts and blockchain technology in SCM in Vietnam by using DEA and Grey model

In the context of a complex and demanding business environment, blockchain and smart contracts are becoming increasingly important in supply chain management in Vietnam. The application of these technologies can help to optimize processes, create a reliable platform for tracking, managing, and forecasting supply chains, and enhance transparency and integrity. In the study of supply chain management in Vietnam, the methods applied are DEA (Data Envelopment Analysis) and the Grey forecasting model. These two methods not only focus on optimizing current processes but also create opportunities for analyzing, evaluating, and forecasting the importance of blockchain technology and smart contracts. This research topic not only raises questions about the potential for optimizing current processes, but also proposes innovative solutions to enhance transparency, integrity, and responsiveness to volatile markets. Additionally, the research aims to propose appropriate strategies for applying these new technologies to business practices in Vietnam, creating a flexible, secure, and adaptable supply chain system that is responsive to the changing business environment of the present.

Enhancing supply chain security and transparency with ai and blockchain integration for future-proof solutions

The objective of this review paper is to examine the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and blockchain technology to enhance supply chain security and transparency, providing future-proof solutions for global industries. As the digital landscape evolves, traditional supply chain management methods face increasing vulnerabilities and inefficiencies. This paper reviews existing literature to assess the current challenges and potential benefits of integrating AI and blockchain in supply chains. The review highlights how AI enhances predictive analytics, demand forecasting, and operational efficiency, while blockchain ensures immutable, decentralized ledgers for real-time tracking and verification of goods. The synergy between these technologies offers unprecedented levels of transparency, enabling stakeholders to detect and respond to anomalies swiftly. Case studies across various industries demonstrate significant improvements in reducing fraud, counterfeiting, and human errors, alongside enhanced compliance with regulatory standards. Conclusions drawn from this review underscore the transformative potential of AI and blockchain in creating resilient, transparent, and secure supply chains. The integration of these technologies not only addresses current vulnerabilities but also lays the foundation for adaptive, intelligent supply chain networks capable of withstanding future disruptions. This paper provides actionable insights and practical frameworks for businesses and policymakers aiming to implement AI and blockchain solutions, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning, cross-industry collaboration, and continuous innovation in achieving long-term supply chain sustainability and security.

Exploring the critical factors in pharmaceutical supply chains revealed during COVID-19 and addressing missing links

The COVID-19 pandemic revealed profound weaknesses in global pharmaceutical supply chains, resulting in widespread shortages of critical medical supplies, delayed drug manufacturing, and disruptions in vaccine distribution. These supply chain vulnerabilities were exacerbated by several key factors, including an overreliance on a limited number of countries for active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), insufficient local manufacturing capacity, and logistical constraints in transportation and distribution networks. The pandemic also exposed inefficiencies in regulatory frameworks, leading to delays in approvals and limited agility in responding to rapidly changing demands. Furthermore, the lack of transparency and real-time monitoring across global supply chains hindered effective decision-making and coordination, aggravating the crisis. This paper provides an in-depth analysis of the critical factors that contributed to pharmaceutical supply chain disruptions during COVID-19, identifying missing links such as the need for diversification of supply sources, enhanced flexibility in manufacturing processes, and the integration of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and automation for supply chain optimization. The analysis highlights how supply chain visibility, digital innovation, and risk management strategies could improve resilience in the face of future global health crises. In addition to identifying these challenges, the paper proposes solutions to address the missing links in pharmaceutical supply chains, including the decentralization of production, the development of regional manufacturing hubs, and the creation of public-private partnerships to bolster local production. The role of government policies in facilitating faster regulatory approvals, fostering international cooperation, and incentivizing innovation is also explored. Case studies on successful post-COVID-19 adaptations, such as the rapid scale-up of vaccine production and the reconfiguration of personal protective equipment (PPE) supply chains, offer insights into effective strategies for building more resilient systems. Ultimately, this paper underscores the importance of a collaborative, multi-stakeholder approach to ensuring the stability and security of pharmaceutical supply chains. It calls for proactive measures to strengthen global supply chain infrastructures, improve regulatory agility, and embrace emerging technologies that can predict and respond to disruptions. These steps are crucial to safeguarding the continuous delivery of essential pharmaceuticals during future pandemics or other large-scale disruptions, ensuring global health security in an increasingly interconnected world.

SolarWinds Attack: Stages, Implications, and Mitigation Strategies in the Cyber Age

SolarWinds is a software company based in the United States that provides IT monitoring and management tools. Founded in 1999, SolarWinds offers a variety of products that help organizations manage networks, systems, IT infrastructure, applications and cloud-based services. SolarWinds products are used for performance monitoring, log management, IT security, and data analysis. The company became widely known after a major cybersecurity incident came to light in late 2020, in which their network management software, Orion, was used as a vector for attacks by a state-backed hacking group. These attacks affected many organizations, including government agencies and private companies, and led to an increased focus on software supply chain security. This paper has reviewed stages, Implications, and mitigation strategies of SolarWinds.

Beyond silicon: Thin-film tandem as an opportunity for photovoltaics supply chain diversification and faster power system decarbonization out to 2050

In the last decade, the manufacturing capacity of silicon, the dominant PV technology, has increasingly been concentrated in China. This coincided with PV cost reduction, while, at the same time, posing risks to PV supply chain security. Recent advancements of novel perovskite tandem PV technologies as an alternative to traditional silicon-based PV provide opportunities for diversification of the PV manufacturing capacity and for increasing the GHG emission benefit of solar PV. Against this background, we estimate the current and future cost-competitiveness and GHG emissions of a set of already commercialized as well as emerging PV technologies for different production locations (China, USA, EU), both at residential and utility-scale. We find EU and USA-manufactured thin-film tandems to have 2–4 % and 0.5–2 % higher costs per kWh and 37–40 % and 32–35 % less GHG emissions per kWh at residential and utility-scale, respectively. Our projections indicate that they will also retain competitive costs (up to 2 % higher) and a 20 % GHG emissions advantage per kWh in 2050.

AI and Blockchain Integration in Business Aviation: Securing Supply Chain and Enhancing Traceability

Purpose: The research looks at how AI converges with the blockchain technology in business aviation to better the domains considered most important: maintenance, operations, flight optimization, and observation of regulatory standards. This is aimed at understanding how these technologies bring solutions that will mitigate the specific challenges to aviation related to the security of supply chains, fraud detection, and customer experience improvement. Methodology: The research adopts a qualitative and quantitative approach, reviewing case studies from leading aviation companies such as Airbus and Boeing, alongside real-world data analysis. The integration of AI for predictive maintenance, flight optimization, and in-flight entertainment (IFE) was examined, while blockchain’s role in securing data management, regulatory compliance, and fraud prevention was assessed through documented applications and industry reports. Findings: The identification of predictive maintenance, as ensured through AI, optimizes aircraft performance, having reduced downtime. Moreover, blockchain increases supply chain transparency and security, reduces fraud, and ensures immutable records. On top of that, AI-powered flight planning and in-flight operations significantly help in operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. Moreover, blockchain helps in compliance with regulations because of its secured and traceable data; hence, it serves as a very viable tool in aviation operations. Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy, and Practice: This research contributes to the theory of AI and blockchain integration by presenting a comprehensive framework for their application in aviation. It provides new insights into how AI and blockchain can not only enhance operational efficiency but also address fraud and compliance issues, which are pivotal for policy development. Practically, it offers aviation companies a roadmap for leveraging these technologies to secure their supply chains, optimize operations, and enhance customer experiences, ultimately advancing the entire industry.

Book Review: Dariusz Grala, "The Security of Military Supply Chains" [“Bezpieczeństwo wojskowych łańcuchów dostaw”], Academy of War Studies Publishing House, Warsaw 2024, ISBN 978-83-8263-503-4, pp. 326.

A new monograph titled "The Security of Military Supply Chains" has emerged in the publishing market, released in 2024 by the Academy of War Studies Publishing House (ISBN 978-83-8263-503-4). This publication spans 326 pages and represents a significant contribution to Polish scientific literature, as the subject matter has not been analysed in such a comprehensive manner until now. The Author of the book is Dariusz Grala, a Colonel in the Polish Army, a Doctor of Engineering, and the current Dean of the Faculty of Management and Command at the Academy of War Studies. The monograph introduces the reader to an extensive, erudite discourse at the intersection of political science research, security studies, and management and quality. The Author meticulously and logically discusses areas related to the security of military supply chains, which have previously been underexplored in the literature. The term "security" is understood here in various contexts, encompassing both states and processes that influence military supply chains. The Author highlights their role as a set of cooperating structures aimed at delivering goods essential for the execution of military training operations, operational activities, and combat missions. The literature often encounters the term "defence sector supply chains"; however, in the military context, the perspective on the functioning of these supply chains has a broader and often sensitive significance. This "sensitive" nature of the security of military supply chains —understood from the intentions expressed in the Introduction — has become the subject of the Author's research, which integrates theories and practices from military logistics and supply chain management. The considerations focus on the processes occurring within these chains under various conditions. This approach is particularly important in the realm of security and defence, as civil supply chain publications often overlook, assuming it to be self-evident, the specific security considerations related to military needs. This publication, in a sense, bridges these two worlds.

The convergence of IoT and sustainability in global supply chains: Patterns, trends, and future directions

This study investigates the pivotal role of Internet of Things (IoT) applications in advancing sustainable supply chains through a comprehensive analysis of research trends, international collaborations, and thematic evolution. Utilizing data from the Web of Science database, the research employs an innovative methodological framework combining keyword network analysis, country collaboration networks, and thematic mapping. The study reveals seven distinct keyword communities, highlighting the dominance of enabling technologies and the emergence of sector-specific applications. Analysis of international collaborations identifies five country clusters, each with unique research foci and collaborative patterns. The thematic map and evolution analysis uncover critical research gaps, including underexplored areas such as security in IoT-enabled supply chains and the integration of smart city concepts. The study projects future research directions, emphasizing the convergence of artificial intelligence and IoT, and the need for more holistic approaches to sustainability in supply chain management. The findings underscore the potential of IoT to foster sustainable business models that balance economic, social, and environmental benefits. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on IoT applications in sustainable supply chains by providing a multifaceted analysis of the field’s structure, evolution, and future trajectory. The insights offered are valuable for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners seeking to leverage IoT for creating more efficient, resilient, and sustainable supply chains in an increasingly globalized and environmentally conscious market.

Enhancing Security and Traceability in Aerospace Supply Chains through Block Chain Technology

This study explores the impact of blockchain technology on aerospace supply chains, focusing on mitigating risks such as supply chain disruptions, counterfeit parts, and regulatory compliance challenges. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative analysis using data sourced from publicly available databases, including the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the Aerospace Industries Association (AIA), the International Air Transport Association (IATA), and reports from blockchain technology providers. Descriptive analysis identified supply chain disruptions (M = 3.74, SD = 1.17) as the most significant risk, followed by counterfeit parts (M = 3.34, SD = 1.20). Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) demonstrated that part authentication and provenance tracking had the strongest impact on improving traceability (β = 0.40, p < 0.001) and transparency (β = 0.38, p < 0.001). A Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA) revealed a positive return on investment, with cost-benefit ratios up to 2.31. Blockchain adoption was also found to reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 25%, while improving operational efficiency through shorter procurement lead times and lower administrative costs. However, regulatory misalignment and interoperability challenges remain barriers to full adoption. The study concludes that blockchain is a transformative tool for enhancing traceability, security, and sustainability in aerospace supply chains.

The value of international standards certification: Evidence on export and firm performance from a security enforcement on borders

Globally, economic growth is promoted through regional economic integration, and governments actively try to improve the security and efficiency of international trade and border management by optimizing the conditions for international trade. The World Trade Organization (WTO) introduced the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) certification system to improve the efficiency of customs clearance and to ensure the security of the global supply chain. Using a sample of Taiwanese-listed firms that attained AEO certification from 2009 to 2018, this study investigates the influence of AEO certification on their export sales and corporate performance. The empirical results show that AEO-certified firms increase their ratio of export sales and the scope of export destination regions. However, AEO-certified firms can not improve their operating and market performance significantly, except for low-performance firms in the accreditation year. This study also uses the two-stage least square regressions (2SLS) method and the propensity score matching method to conduct the regression analysis. The regression results are consistent with the main findings. The findings can be used for reference by firms seeking to expand international trade and by governments to promote the country’s international trading.

Enhancing supply chain resilience through the supply network approach

Purpose This study aims to investigate the efficacy of the supply network approach in bolstering supply chain resilience amidst escalating global uncertainty. With enterprises worldwide facing increasing threats that disrupt supply chains, this research explores how firms enhance supply network resilience during crises. Design/methodology/approach Using a multi-case study design, this research thoroughly examines interactions within firms’ supply networks to uncover new insights on supply network approach and how firms enhance supply network resilience against global uncertainty. The selection of cases was methodologically aligned to represent diverse industries and geographical locations to ensure a comprehensive analysis. Findings This study’s findings reveal how firms develop supply network resilience during global crises. The supply network perspective provides a deeper understanding of how firms manage supply chain interactions, interdependencies and strategic positions to survive and thrive during crises. The conceptual framework developed here provides insights that can foster improved coordination and facilitate effective temporary organising. The framework highlights the need for firms to proactively seize opportunities and mitigate risks within their global supply chains during crises to boost overall resilience. Originality/value Offering novel insights into the domain of supply chain networks, this study underscores novel perspectives of the supply network approach when firms develop supply chain resilience during global crises. Highlighting the adaptive responses of firms that integrate these approaches enriches the understanding of strategic manoeuvres firms can use to navigate global uncertainty and secure supply chain continuity.

Designing Secure and Smart Supply Chains: A Roadmap

Designing Secure and Smart Supply Chains: A Roadmap

Enhancing work safety behavior through supply chain safety management in small and medium sized manufacturing suppliers.

Enhancing work safety behaviors among Small and Medium-Sized Manufacturing Suppliers (SMMs) is crucial for establishing a more secure and efficient supply chain. Since the foundation of safety lies in positive prevention, it is crucial that SMMs adopt proactive and pro-social work safety behaviors that transcend mere compliance with standard regulations. Present-day diversified supply chain safety management apply varying degrees of pressures on SMMs. The effectiveness of such pressures, as well as their potential to spawn advanced safety behaviors in SMMs, is a matter of investigation. This research investigates the impact of Supply Chain Safety Management Pressure(SCSMP) on the SMMs' Work Safety Behaviors(WSB). A theoretical framework is constructed, grounded in institutional theory and theory of planned behavior, which earmarks three distinct dimensions of SCSMP: Coercive Pressure(CP), Mimetic Pressure(MP), and Normative Pressure(NP). The survey of 265 SMMs facilitated an assessment of the SMMs' Willingness for Responses(WR), which includes their Willingness for Adaptive Responses(WAR) and Willingness for Co-creative Responses(WCR). Subsequently, the resulting WSB entail Safety Compliance Behavior(SCB), Proactive Safety Behavior(PSB), and Pro-social Safety Behavior(PsSB). Among these, SCB is categorized as a basic safety behavior, while PSB and PsSB which emphasize voluntary, active, and cooperative actions, are classified as advanced safety behaviors. Our research findings underscore the substantial influence of the SCSMP in shaping WSB. WR serves as a critical intermediary, connecting external pressures with internal organizational practices. In particular, WCR is instrumental in the formation of advanced safety behavior. The theoretical contribution of this research is manifested in its enhancement of our comprehension regarding the determinants of WSB among SMMs. Furthermore, it addresses the literature gap in elucidating the effectiveness of supply chain safety management and the mechanisms behind the formation of WSB. The practical significance lies in elevating the overall safety standards throughout the supply chain and minimizing safety-related hazards among SMMs.

Mitigating security risks in global supply chains: The role of strategic communication and criminological approaches in countering illicit trade and cyber threats

In the era of global commerce, the integrity and resilience of supply chains have become paramount. However, the increasing complexity of international supply networks has exposed them to a myriad of security risks, including both physical threats and cyberattacks. This paper explores the critical role of strategic communication and criminological approaches in mitigating security risks within global supply chains. It argues that a proactive approach to security—one that integrates effective communication strategies and criminological theories—can significantly enhance the ability of organizations to manage and mitigate these risks. Strategic communication, encompassing clear messaging, timely information sharing, and robust stakeholder engagement, is essential for maintaining transparency and preparedness in supply chain operations. Effective communication ensures that all stakeholders are informed about potential threats and the measures in place to address them, thereby facilitating a coordinated and timely response to security incidents (Fearn-Banks, 2016; Coombs, 2007). This paper examines how organizations can develop and implement comprehensive communication plans that enhance their ability to anticipate and respond to security threats. In addition, the application of criminological theories, such as routine activity theory, situational crime prevention, and deterrence theory, provides valuable frameworks for understanding and addressing security vulnerabilities in supply chains. Routine activity theory emphasizes the importance of identifying motivated offenders, suitable targets, and capable guardians, which can help organizations develop targeted security measures to reduce opportunities for criminal activities (Cohen & Felson, 1979). Situational crime prevention focuses on modifying the environment to deter crime, while deterrence theory highlights the role of penalties and enforcement in preventing criminal behavior (Clarke, 1997; Becker, 1968). This paper explores how these theories can be applied to enhance supply chain security and develop effective preventive strategies. The integration of strategic communication with criminological approaches offers a holistic framework for mitigating security risks in supply chains. By combining these strategies, organizations can improve their ability to manage security threats, safeguard their assets, and ensure the continuity of their operations. The findings of this paper underscore the importance of adopting a comprehensive approach to supply chain security that incorporates both communication and criminological insights. Keywords: Global Supply Chains, Security Risks, Strategic Communication, Criminological Approaches, Cyber Threats, Licit Trade, Routine Activity Theory, Situational Crime Prevention, Deterrence Theory, Supply Chain Security.