Resilient and Sustainable Seafood Supply Chains: Integrating Strategic Supply Chain Management for Environmental and Economic Sustainability

Abstract

Seafood supply chain networks (SSCNs) are complex socio-ecological systems that are essential to global food security, livelihoods, and trade. With these networks being increasingly threatened by climate change, geopolitical tensions, and market disturbances, it becomes imperative to build their resilience and sustainability. The present research was conducted to examine strategic supply chain management practices that would enhance resilience and sustainability simultaneously in SSCNs by balancing economic viability with environmental sustainability. Using a mixed-method design, information was gathered from 250 stakeholders at different stages of the seafood supply chain using interviews, focus groups, and structured questionnaires, with additional secondary data in the form of industry reports and literature. Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and regression modelling were applied to examine the relationship between supply chain strategies and resilience/sustainability outcomes. The research indicated that both economic and environmental sustainability have a positive impact on supply chain resilience, with businesses focusing on contingency planning, coordination, and green sourcing strategies. Regression analysis reaffirmed the statistical significance of the effect of economic and environmental sustainability on resilience (p < 0.05), pointing out the value of combined approaches. The research emphasizes that strengthening SSCNs demands strategies that weigh economic performance against environmental responsibility, promoting collaboration, information exchange, and diversity in operations. The present research adds to the gaps in the literature by providing empirical evidence on how strategic supply chain practices can avoid disruptions and secure equitable, adaptive, and sustainable seafood supply chains despite global challenges.