Digital technologies (DT) adoption in agri-food supply chains amidst COVID-19: an approach towards food security concerns in developing countries

Purpose This study aims to explore the critical factors for digital technologies (DT) adoption to develop a sustainable agri-food supply chain (AFSC). As the developing countries are struggling to survive during COVID-19, DT adoption in AFSC can bring resilience and minimizes the food security concerns. Design/methodology/approach The study has used Fuzzy Delphi and fuzzy decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) methods for identifying the critical success factors (CSFs) for DT adoption and inter-relationship among them to explore the crucial factors for food security across AFSC. Findings The research reveals that Digital Technologies, Logistics and infrastructure is the most crucial CSF for managing food security in developing economy during the COVID-19 situation. This factor supports the decision-makers to manage data for demand and supply management and helps to survive and sustain in the disruptive environment. The findings of the study will help farmers and supply chain partners to manage the smooth flow of food items from source to end-users during a disruptive environment. The sourcing, manufacturing and delivery methods are needed to be changed with DT inclusion and may support to redesign their internal systems for improvisation. This shorter AFSC will enhance the resilience in AFSCs. Research limitations/implications The emergency situation raised by the COVID-19 pandemic has brought global food security concerns. Adoption of DT across AFSCs can strategically reduce food waste and optimize the demand and supply balance. Originality/value The study aims to build a comprehensive framework by identifying the CSFs to develop resilient and sustainable AFSC amidst COVID-19.

Automated summary

The study found that digital technologies, logistics, and infrastructure are the most crucial success factors for managing food security in developing countries during the COVID-19 situation. This supports decision-makers in managing data for demand and supply management, helping them survive and sustain in a disruptive environment. The findings of the study will assist farmers and supply chain partners in managing the smooth flow of food items during a disruptive environment, by changing sourcing, manufacturing, and delivery methods and redesigning internal systems for improvement.