A DEMATEL approach for analysing the interdependence among the efficiency barriers in the agri-fresh produce supply chains

Managing the efficiency of an agri-fresh produce supply chain is challenging and intricate due to the numerous barriers affecting it locally and globally. This study aims to enumerate the potential barriers to efficiency in the agri-fresh produce supply chains, especially when managing fruits and vegetables. We also focus on the interdependence among these barriers. We follow an in-depth literature review and identify barriers with the help of experts. The Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) approach establishes the interdependence among the identified barriers. The study reveals that numerous scattered farmers with small land areas and unorganized intermediaries, followed by barriers related to fresh food safety and quality, act as the most influential barriers, and barriers related to value addition and food processing are the least significant. Out of 13 finalized barriers, eight are cause and five are effect barriers. The study’s results provide immense insight into all Agri-fresh produce supply chain network parties, enabling them to optimize their activities and reduce food waste. Policymakers can use this information to create supportive policies that address multiple barriers simultaneously, leading to more effective and comprehensive solutions. The lack of studies on the interdependence of barriers causing inefficiency in the agri-fresh produce supply chain makes the work original and unique. The authors considered the response of farmers, fruit and vegetable retailers, wholesalers, and mediators for the development of the initial mutual influence matrix.