identifying factors of cross border e commerce supply chain resilience in viet nam

FACULTY OF BUSINESS Identifying Factors of Cross Border E-Commerce Supply Chain Resilience in Viet Nam SUPERVISOR PHI-HUNG NGUYEN PH.D THESIS SUBMITTED IN FULFILMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS

FACULTY OF BUSINESS

Identifying Factors of Cross Border E-Commerce

Supply Chain Resilience in Viet Nam

SUPERVISOR PHI-HUNG NGUYEN PH.D

THESIS SUBMITTED IN FULFILMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE DEGREE OF BACHELOR OF INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS

DECEMBER, 2023

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We want to express our deep appreciation to all those who have provided their support during our academic journey With their assistance, we were able to accomplish our goals in this thesis First and foremost, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Dr Nguyen Phi Hung, whose significant role in our success cannot be overstated Dr Hung's unwavering guidance, support, and expertise in the research field were instrumental in shaping our thesis He consistently motivated us throughout our learning journey and skillfully guided us through challenges and obstacles, ensuring the timely completion of our thesis We are immensely grateful to Dr Hung for his invaluable guidance and support

We also thank the Faculty of Business FPT University lecturers Throughout our four years of study, they provided us with continuous support and guidance, sharing their extensive knowledge and skills Their contribution equipped us with the necessary tools to complete this project We want to thank the reviewers for their valuable feedback Their insightful comments and suggestions greatly enhanced the quality of our study The main results of this thesis have been published under the title "Identifying Factors of Cross Border E-Commerce Supply Chain Resilience in Viet Nam" and are included in the appendix

Thesis’s Authors

Nguyen Ngoc Minh ChaPhan Thi Khanh LinhTran Hoai Anh Nguyen Thu Ha

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ABSTRACT

In an era dominated by the rise of global e-commerce, the Cross-border Supply Chains Resilience has become an indispensable strategic requirement Cross-border E-commerce Supply Chain Resilience plays a pivotal role in the contemporary global economy, supporting international trade, bolstering economic stability through diversified sourcing, and fostering business innovation and competitiveness

A research methodology combining Fuzzy-Delphi and Fuzzy-DEMATEL methods has been introduced in two phases to identify and prioritize the primary factors influencing Cross-border E-commerce Supply in Vietnam The research aims to fulfill dual objectives: (I) to identify and isolate critical variables that impact the resilience of Cross-border E-commerce Supply Chain in Vietnam and (II) to ascertain the relative importance and interrelationships among these variables

By delving into the network of relationships between these factors, this research offers a more nuanced comprehension of the determinants of Cross-border E-commerce Supply Chain and their ripple effects on other aspects The study offers managerial and policy implications by identifying core resilience factors such as Pandemics and Health Crises, Information Technology and Connectivity, Environmental Considerations The results of this study are expected to provide valuable insights into the critical factors influencing Cross-border E-commerce Supply Chain in Vietnam and their relative significance These findings can serve as a foundation for policymakers to develop effective strategies for strengthening Cross-border E-commerce Supply Chain, especially in developing countries like Vietnam, where this resilience can be a driver of economic growth and development

Moreover, this proposed research methodology has the potential to make a substantial contribution to the body of knowledge regarding Cross-border E-commerce Supply Chain and present a valuable framework for future investigations Through its comprehensive approach, the study aims to provide a nuanced understanding of Cross-border E-commerce Supply Chain, ultimately empowering businesses to navigate the increasingly intricate and uncertain global landscape more effectively

Keyword: Cross-border E-commerce, Supply Chain resilience, Cross-border E-commerce Supply Chain, Fuzzy-Delphi, Fuzzy-DEMATEL, Vietnam

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT 2

ABSTRACT 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS 4

LIST OF TABLES 6

LIST OF FIGURES 7

LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS 8

Chapter 1: Introduction 9

1.1 Topic background 9

1.1.1 Cross-border E-Commerce 9

1.1.2 Supply Chain Resilience 9

1.1.3 Overview of Cross-border E-commerce Supply Chain in global background 10

1.1.4 Cross-border E-commerce Supply Chain in Vietnam 11

1.1.5 Practical problem 13

1.1.6 Importance Of Cross Border E-Commerce Supply Chain Resilience 15

1.2 Research gaps 15

1.3 Research questions 17

1.4 Research objectives 17

1.5 Research contributions 17

1.6 Thesis outline 18

Chapter 2: Literature review 19

2.1 Literature Review on Cross-border E-commerce Supply Chain Resilience 19

2.1.1 Cross-border E-commerce 19

2.1.2 Suplly Chain Resilience 20

2.2 Literature Review On MCDM Models 21

2.2.1 Fuzzy Sets Theory 21

2.2.2 Delphi and Fuzzy-Delphi Methods 22

2.2.3 DEMATEL and Fuzzy - DEMATEL 23

2.2.4 Conclusion 23

2.3 Literature review on Main Factors 24

2.4 Literature review on Key Determinants 32

Chapter 3: Methodology 73

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3.1 Research Design and Research Process 73

3.3 Sample and Data Collection 74

3.3.1 Sample Size 74

3.3.2 Data Collection 75

3.4.1 Fuzzy Sets 76

3.4.2 Fuzzy-Delphi method 81

3.4.3 Fuzzy-DEMATEL method 82

Chapter 4: Results and Discussions 86

4.1 Descriptive Statistic 86

4.2 Result of the Fuzzy Delphi Method 90

4.3 Result of the Fuzzy DEMATEL Method 94

4.3.1 The Fuzzy-DEMATEL results of main factors 94

4.3.2 The Fuzzy-DEMATEL results of Regulation environment 97

4.3.3 The Fuzzy-DEMATEL results of Customs and Border Procedures 99

4.3.4 The Fuzzy-DEMATEL results of Transportation Infrastructure 101

4.3.5 The Fuzzy-DEMATEL results of Information Technology and Connectivity 102

4.4.6 The Fuzzy-DEMATEL results of Supplier and Partner Relationships 104

4.4.7 The Fuzzy-DEMATEL results of Inventory Management 105

4.3.8 The Fuzzy-DEMATEL results of Risk Assessment and Mitigation Strategies 107

4.3.9 The Fuzzy-DEMATEL results of Information Sharing and Transparency 109

4.3.10 The Fuzzy-DEMATEL results of Supply Chain Visibility and Traceability 111

4.3.11 The Fuzzy-DEMATEL results of Pandemics and Health Crises 112

4.3.12 The Fuzzy-DEMATEL results of Environmental Considerations 113

4.3.13 The Fuzzy-DEMATEL results of Political and Geopolitical Stability 115

Chapter 5: Conclusions, Implications, Limitations, and Future Work 117

5.1 Conclusions 117

5.2 Theoretical Implications 118

5.3 Managerial Implications 119

5.4 Limitations and Future Research 120

References 121

APPENDIX 141

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LIST OF TABLES

Table 2 1: Determinants belonging to 12 dimensions 32

Table 3 1: Fuzzy-Delphi linguistic terms transformation 81

Table 3 2: Triangular fuzzy numbers corresponding to linguistic terms (Li, 1999) 83

Table 4 1: Descriptive data of Age 86

Table 4 2: Descriptive Statistics of Gender 87

Table 4 3:Descriptive Statistics of Education Qualification 87

Table 4 4: Descriptive Statistics of Position Occupation 88

Table 4 5: Descriptive Statistics of Experience Years 89

Table 4 6: Fuzzy-DELPHI Method factor result 90

Table 4 7: Fuzzy-DELPHI Method sub-factor result 91

Table 4 8: The Fuzzy-DEMATEL results of main factors 94

Table 4 9: The Fuzzy-DEMATEL results of Regulation environment 97

Table 4 10: The Fuzzy-DEMATEL results of Customs and Border Procedures 99

Table 4 11: The Fuzzy-DEMATEL results of Transportation Infrastructure 101

Table 4 12: The Fuzzy-DEMATEL results of Information Technology and Connectivity 102

Table 4 13: The Fuzzy-DEMATEL results of Supplier and Partner Relationships 104

Table 4 14: The Fuzzy-DEMATEL results of Inventory Management 106

Table 4.15: The Fuzzy-DEMATEL results of Risk Assessment and Mitigation Strategies 107

Table 4 16: The Fuzzy-DEMATEL results of Information Sharing and Transparency 109

Table 4 17: The Fuzzy-DEMATEL results of SC Visibility and Traceability 111

Table 4 18: The Fuzzy-DEMATEL results of Pandemics and Health Crises 112

Table 4 19: The Fuzzy-DEMATEL results of Environmental Considerations 114

Table 4 20: The Fuzzy-DEMATEL results of Political and Geopolitical Stability 115

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LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 3 1: Proposed research framework 74

Figure 3 2: Triangular fuzzy number 79

Figure 3 3: (a) Central triangular number; (b) Central triangular number symmetrical about µ 80 Figure 4 1: Responses of Question 1 86

Figure 4 2: Responses of Question 2 87

Figure 4 3: Responses of Question 3 88

Figure 4 4: Responses of Question 4 88

Figure 4 5: Responses of Question 5 89

Figure 4 6: Intensity level of the relationships 95

Figure 4 7: Network relations map of dimentions 95

Figure 4 8: Network relations map of RE 98

Figure 4 9: Network relations map of Customs and Border Procedures 100

Figure 4 10: Network relations map of Transportation Infrastructure 101

Figure 4 11: Network relations map of Information Technology and Connectivity 103

Figure 4 12: Network relations map of Supplier and Partner Relationships 105

Figure 4 13: Network relations map of Inventory management 106

Figure 4 14: Network relations map of of Risk Assessment and Mitigation Strategies 108

Figure 4 15: Network relations map of of Information Sharing and Transparency 110

Figure 4 16: Network relations map of SC Visibility and Traceability 111

Figure 4 17: Network relations map of Pandemics and Health Crises 113

Figure 4 18: Network relations map of Environment considerations 114

Figure 4 19: Network relations map of Political and Geopolitical Stability 116

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LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS

CBECSC Cross-border E-commerce Supply Chain

ICT Information and Communication Technology

CBECSCR Cross-border E-commerce Supply Chain

SMEs Small and Medium-sized Enterprises

MCDM Multi-Criteria Decision-Making

JIT Just- -timein

VIKOR VIseKriterijumska Optimizacija I Kompromisno Resenje

PROMETHEE Preference Ranking Organization Method for Enrichment Evaluations ELECTRE Elimination and Choice Expressing Reality

TOPSIS Similarity to Ideal Solution

PLS SEM- Partial least squares structural equation modeling

UN/CEFACT United Nations Center for Trade Facilitation and Electronic Business

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Chapter 1: Introduction 1.1 Topic background

1.1.1 Cross-border E-Commerce

The growth within the Internet economy has caused conventional international trade to change into Cross-border E-commerce (CBEC), and this has led to a breakthrough in CBEC companies (Y Wang et al., 2020) E-commerce or online sales between consumers and sellers, is the area of the world economy that is expanding at the quickest rate CBEC is the term used to describe online transactions and dealings that take place between different areas or countries and are made possible by information and communication technology (ICT) (Fang & Wang, 2021) Contracts are negotiated, electronic payments are processed via e-commerce platforms, and a logistics provider ships goods abroad inside CBEC (H Zhang et al., 2023) The Cross-border E-commerce supply chain (CBECSC) may be thought of as an organizational structure run by important businesses with the objective of meeting CBEC consumers' needs through collaboration with Supply Chain (SC) partners The activities covered by this partnership span the whole product lifecycle and include product design, procurement, production, sales, and service (Liu et al., 2021)

1.1.2 Supply Chain Resilience

Ponomarov and Holcomb (2009) claimed that adaptability in a Supply Chain Resilience (SCR) refers to its capacity to foresee unforeseen circumstances, deal with interruptions skillfully, and restore operational continuity by preserving the appropriate degree of connectivity and control over structure and function

Every action within a SC carries a certain level of inherent risk for potential disruptions Shorter product life cycles, rising customer demands, and SC's growing global reach have highlighted the financial impact these disruptions in business innovation and competitiveness have on businesses Disruptions could range from a significant fire at a factory, an important supplier, or even a terrorist attack These events can negatively impact revenue and costs, resulting in revenue loss, decreased market share, and increased expenses due to expedited logistics services

To minimize these risks, a SC needs to be designed with event preparedness, efficient response,

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and the ability to restore operations to an original or improved state after a disruption occurs This is the essence of SCR (H Zhang et al., 2023)

1.1.3 Overview of Cross-border E-commerce Supply Chain in global background

The expansion of international trade has led to the robust and consistent growth of CBEC (H Zhang et al., 2023), demonstrating a steady upward trajectory This global phenomenon has reshaped the way businesses operate and consumers shop It transcends geographical boundaries and opens new avenues for international trade

With the aid of technological platforms and payment methods, CBEC has grown to be a significant force in driving global trade This includes online transactions for the international sale and acquisition of goods and services With its unparalleled access to consumers and marketplaces throughout the world, this phenomenon has completely transformed traditional commerce CBEC has many advantages, but it also presents some special difficulties, particularly when it comes to external dangers to the SC, such as terrorism, natural catastrophes, political unrest, financial instability, and legal issues These dangers exacerbate SC vulnerability

in CBEC and raise the possibility of disruption They are unable to fully satisfy client requests because of these interruptions

For example, Seagate faced difficulties in fulfilling orders for hard disk drives when it lost two of its plants to floods caused by a tsunami in Thailand in 2010 (Thomas Fuller, 2011) Additionally,

in 2018, the CBECSC faced disruptive risks due to trade tensions between China and the United States (Lukin, 2019) The necessity of reviewing healthcare systems, business models, lifestyles, and SC management was further highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic It brought supply shortages to the forefront in 2020, amid shifting demand and interruptions in the supply side (Ozdemir et al., 2022)

These challenges highlight the dynamic and uncertain nature of supply networks Managers are finding it increasingly difficult to coordinate the flow of resources, partly due to the growing dynamism of the environment (Christopher et al., 2004) Hence, SCR is a powerful tool for guaranteeing the safe operation of CBECSC and is essential in this ever-changing global landscape It constitutes a pivotal factor for CBEC businesses to consistently gain competitive edges and uphold their global core competitiveness This impetus has spurred numerous

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researchers to investigate avenues for bolstering SCR, primarily through a comprehensive grasp

of the significance of SC risk and vulnerability elements

1.1.4 Cross-border E-commerce Supply Chain in Vietnam

Vietnam has risen to prominence as a focal point for CBEC activities, propelled by its thinking government policies, the expansion of its middle-income population, and the rapid growth of its internet economy

forward-According to a recent report from Vietnam's Ministry of Industry and Trade's Department of Commerce and Digital Economy, the e-commerce market in that nation was estimated to be worth 13.7 billion USD in 2019 In 2021, e-commerce Electronics account for about 6.5% of total retail revenue, which compared to 2020 has grown by more than 16% From 2021 to 2025, the market is anticipated to continue growing at a remarkable rate of thirty percent per year (https://www.trade.gov/)

E-The first point worth mentioning is the growth of the Internet and smartphones, along with the increase in the youth population and increasing purchasing power The number of smartphone users and the level of smartphone access is regarded as one of the foundations for the growth of the digital economy According to 2020 data, Vietnam ranked 9th in smartphone usage rate, with 63.1% (https://vov.vn/) The year 2020 witnessed significant transformations in the economy due

to the COVID-19 pandemic, prompting a shift in consumer buying behaviors from traditional methods to e-commerce This change was facilitated by the digital era of technology 4.0, where the internet experienced rapid growth Consequently, online business and sales emerged as profitable avenues for various sectors of the Vietnamese economy According to the report, there has been a significant increase of around 8 million new digital consumers since the COVID-19 pandemic's onset (https://mof.gov.vn/) In 2020, Vietnam experienced an impressive 18% growth rate in its e-commerce sector, reaching a total scale of 11.8 billion USD This places Vietnam as the sole Southeast Asian country achieving double-digit growth in this field (Hang & Thuy, 2021)

Cross-border shopping holds significant importance, representing 37% of Vietnam's overall commerce market (https://www.vietnam-briefing.com/) The emergence of CBEC has opened up numerous possibilities for Vietnamese enterprises to tap into international markets and boost import-export operations According to a survey conducted by Amazon Global Selling at the end

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of 2022, Vietnamese selling partners have achieved remarkable growth on the Amazon platform Approximately 10 million products that are proudly made in Vietnam have been successfully sold to customers worldwide through Amazon In spite of significant obstacles resulting from the pandemic and the global economic downturn, the count of Vietnamese sellers on the platform witnessed an increase of over 80% and the export value also surged by 45% during the same period compared to 2021 (Amazon global selling, 2022)

Besides Amazon, About 2,000 Vietnamese companies that sell a variety of goods, such as consumer goods, handicrafts, clothing, processed and packaged foods, and agricultural products, have also joined the e-commerce platform Alibaba.com (https://vtv.vn/) In March 2023, the average number of buyers interested in Vietnamese products rose by 55%, there has been a 24% increase in the availability of Vietnamese products on the platform in recent times

Based on the latest study conducted by Access Partnership, if domestic businesses in Vietnam receive complete support and expedite the adoption of e-commerce to export their products and services, the country's e-commerce export revenue has the potential to reach VND 296.3 trillion

by 2027 Presently, Vietnam holds the third position in the region for e-commerce and exhibits the highest growth rate in Southeast Asia Additionally, Vietnam is ranked among the best 10 nations globally with the fastest expansion in the e-commerce sector (https://www.mof.gov.vn/)

In the terms of policy, the Vietnamese government has set forth a distinct objective of engaging

in the global SC in the foreseeable future A noteworthy development occurred in November

2022 when the Government introduced the "Promoting Vietnamese enterprises to participate directly in foreign distribution networks until 2030" project (https://moit.gov.vn/) This initiative outlines requirements aimed at fostering robust participation by Vietnamese enterprises in the global production, supply, and distribution networks of goods It includes measures to enhance businesses' capacity for CBEC involvement and establishes the ambitious goal that by 2030, Vietnamese products will be present in all countries with free trade agreements with Vietnam Online marketplaces and platforms serve a dual purpose in Vietnam, not only granting Vietnamese consumers access to a diverse array of global products but also affording local businesses the chance to venture into international markets Nonetheless, as per representatives from the Ministry of Industry and Trade's Department of Trade Promotion, for businesses to make the most of CBEC, they must confront limitations in their product supply capacity effectively (https://wtocenter.vn/) The COVID-19 pandemic, for instance, has left a profound

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imprint on Vietnam's SC, resulting in closures, labor shortages, and diminished production capacity across various sectors The nation grapples with challenges stemming from insufficient access to raw materials, SC disruptions driven by geopolitical tensions and China's epidemic containment strategies Furthermore, navigating transportation and logistics hurdles, such as container scarcities and port congestion, has further complicated the management of cargo flows Additionally, the absence of clear government policies and regulations on CBEC poses obstacles for renowned companies looking to enter the Vietnamese market

Therefore, the cross-border electronics SC, in addition to existing obstacles, always has the potential for uncontrollable events In this context, SCR in CBEC has become paramount Not only to ensure the sustainable growth of CBEC in Vietnam but also to maintain the country's continued integration into the global economy

1.1.5 Practical problem

The growing intricacy of contemporary SC networks because of worldwide product distribution (H Wang et al., 2020) has led to increased uncertainty, especially in unforeseen events such as disruptions (Chiappetta Jabbour et al., 2019) Such disruptions significantly impact operational continuity and the overall economy (Ivanov & Dolgui, 2021; Namdar et al., 2018)

A major shock to the world economy, the COVID-19 pandemic caused major disruptions in SCs because of border restrictions, policy changes, and demand fluctuations, forcing many businesses

to close permanently or temporarily (W Liu et al., 2022) Frequent shutdowns have exacerbated challenges, including reduced revenue streams, excess inventory, and shifts in supply and demand amid disruptions in the SC

Considering these difficulties, CBEC platforms have become a vital lifeline for businesses across various industries, offering new opportunities to expand their horizons These platforms allow businesses to diversify their import and export markets, reduce their dependence on specific segments, and minimize the effects of alterations in the SC

Studies highlight the outstanding advantages of CBEB, especially in the EU and North American markets, where optimal conditions facilitate a seamless transition from Domestic online commerce Vietnam, situated in the Asia-Pacific area, boasts the fastest growing CBEC sector in the world Data from the Department of E-Commerce and Digital Economy shows that about 11%

of Vietnamese businesses actively participate in e-commerce platforms, of which 35% form

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partnerships with foreign units through online channels, bringing significant revenue (https://hanoimoi.vn/) The average proportion of the region compared to the global market is constantly increasing, reaching an average annual value of 41.3% and an average growth rate of 37.7% in the period 2014-2020 (https://tapchitaichinh.vn/) Notably, on the Amazon CBEC platform alone, Vietnamese businesses' export value in 2022 increased by an incredible 45% compared to the previous year, leading to total export turnover growing by 45% In addition, the number of businesses participating in the Amazon platform increased by an impressive 80%, affirming the role of CBEC as a springboard for businesses of different sizes to participate in global activities and building international brands (https://vtc.vn/)

CBEC proves to be a tool to introduce Vietnamese goods to the international market, reach a wider customer base and bring significant benefits compared to traditional trade However, the increasingly evolving business environment poses special challenges for SCs, especially CBESC Different markets impose distinct regulations and standards regarding product quality and trading methods The COVID-19 pandemic's protracted effects have had a major impact on businesses involved in both CBESC, upsetting SC and creating operational delays

The global spread of the virus has placed enormous pressure on SC networks (Guan et al., 2020), affecting air cargo capacity and the international shipping industry For example, although growth slowed at the end of 2020, total air cargo capacity was still down about 20% compared to

2019, causing revenue per kilometer to drop by two-thirds The international shipping industry faced a quarter of global shipping capacity in the first half of 2020 Thus, some shipping expenses increased by two or even three times, causing SC to be standing on the brink of collapse

Lack of pandemic preparedness hindered rapid recovery from major SC disruptions (Dubey et al., 2020) These challenges come at a time of significant growth in e-commerce, highlighting the need for SCR to mitigate the impact of major disruptions such as a global pandemic and considering future trade challenges SCR is now essential for businesses to keep their competitive edge (Z Zhang et al., 2023)

In this context, the importance of building SCR has attracted significant academic attention (Gu

et al., 2021; Wong et al., 2020; Yang et al., 2021) This research is urgently intended to assist SCdecision makers in recognizing enablers and understanding contextual relationships and causes

to strengthen resilience initiatives It also provides insights and enhances the ability to respond

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quickly to unforeseen circumstances and bounce back quickly by keeping continuous operations and improving after disturbances or disruptions to gain a competitive advantage

1.1.6 Importance Of Cross Border E-Commerce Supply Chain Resilience

Cross border E-commerce Supply Chain Resilience (CBECSCR) plays a vital part in the worldwide economy for several important reasons First and foremost, it facilitates international trade by allowing businesses to reach a broader customer base across borders In today's interconnected world, where consumers can easily access products and services from around the globe, a resilient SC ensures the smooth flow of goods, reducing disruptions caused by unexpected events like natural disasters or geopolitical conflicts Secondly, it enhances economic stability by diversifying sourcing options and reducing reliance on a single region or supplier, thereby lowering the risk of SC bottlenecks Furthermore, a resilient CBECSC encourages innovation and competitiveness as companies continually adapt and improve their operations to remain flexible in the face of challenges

Moreover, CBECSCR is vital for sustaining the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the global economy (Costa & Castro, 2021) SMEs are more susceptible to SC disruptions than larger corporations because they frequently lack the infrastructure and resources

A resilient SC gives smaller enterprises the stability and adaptability they need to successfully navigate foreign markets, enabling them to compete on a global scale In conclusion, CBECSCR

is not merely a competitive advantage but a strategic imperative in the modern global economy Its role in facilitating trade, stabilizing economies, empowering SMEs, and responding to global challenges cannot be overstated As the world continues to evolve, maintaining and enhancing SCR will be essential for businesses and governments to navigate an increasingly interconnected and unpredictable global marketplace

1.2 Research gaps

Scholars at home and abroad have greatly valued studying the elements that influence SCR Several beneficial research results have been generated from many viewpoints, the majority of which focus on SC engineering resilience research since it is immediately affected by a wide range of disruptive events that may have ramifications for a company's continuity and viability viability (Ali et al., 2017; Kamalahmadi and Parast, 2016; Z Wang and Zhang, 2020) Over the

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past few decades, there has been a shift toward a greater emphasis on SCR in response to risks that are becoming more and more vulnerable, like stricter regulations, rising consumer pressure, increased competition, uncertain demand, challenging markets, outsourcing, globalization, and a continuously growing gradient for economic competitiveness (Dwivedi et al., 2021; Fahimnia et al., 2019; Meixell & Luoma, 2015) Although research on the elements that influence SCR has made considerable progress, specific gaps still need to be discussed To begin with, there is little systematic research literature There are microscopic study findings on the contributing elements

of CBESCR As a result, building a systematic CBESCR influencing factor system in this research is required Second, a comprehensive study on the interplay of influential elements is lacking On the other hand, combining these influencing elements helps identify the highest and determine the components of CBESCR that have the greatest influence, the deepest influence, and the surface influence As a result, it is vital to develop a logical order of CBESCR-affecting elements in this subject

To fill in these research gaps, this study aims to create a multi-level structure of influencing factors, prioritize the influencing factors, and develop a comprehensive system of CBESCR influencing factors The Multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) approach is typically used for analyzing the mechanisms of determining elements (C Xu et al., 2020) While the MCDM method has gained popularity within the SC domain, there remains a scarcity of studies employing MCDM to identify CBECSCR, especially in the context of Vietnam Consequently, a pressing need exists for a comprehensive MCDM model capable of identifying and prioritizing critical factors and elucidating their impact on the adaptive capabilities of CBECSC in Vietnam Furthermore, there is a clear gap in the literature when it comes to integrating MCDM and fuzzy models in SCs Additionally, established MCDM models grapple with constraints when confronted with intricate, multifaceted problems The assumption of independence between decision criteria frequently turns out to be false in practical situations, and pairwise comparisons between various factors can be tedious and prone to inaccuracies Investigating the efficacy of fuzzy decision-making strategies in the context of SCs is therefore necessary

This study introduces a novel two-stage approach utilizing the Delphi and DEMATEL methods, grounded in fuzzy sets, to analyze the factors that impact the responsiveness and adaptability of CBECSC in Vietnam This proposed method is well-equipped to integrate subjective assessments and linguistic variables, aspects often neglected in traditional research methodologies It can

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also record both direct and indirect relationships between factors, which leads to a more comprehensive understanding of the components affecting CBECSC's responsiveness and adaptability In the initial stage, the Fuzzy-Delphi method is applied to identify pertinent factors affecting the adaptability and responsiveness of CBECSC The Fuzzy-Delphi approach effectively filters out irrelevant factors and achieves consensus among experts, while the inclusion of Fuzzy logic adeptly handles uncertainties and inaccuracies inherent in expert determinations Next, in the second phase, the Fuzzy-DEMATEL method evaluates the relationships among the factors that have been identified By throwing light on the application of MCDM and fuzzy methodologies in the SC arena, the proposed research has the potential to significantly add to the body of existing literature Furthermore, it underscores the potential advantages these approaches can offer organizations operating within Vietnam's logistics service industry

1.3 Research questions

This study attempts to respond to the following research questions:

(RQ1) What are critical factors affecting CBECSCR in the context of Viet Nam?

(RQ2) How do critical factors interrela CBECSCR in the context of Viet Nam? te to

1.4 Research objectives

The primary objectives of this study are twofold:

(RO1) To identify the critical factors affecting CBECSCR in the context of Viet Nam

(RO2) To determine the interrelationships among the critical factors affecting CBECSCR in the context of Viet Nam

1.5 Research contributions

This study presents a novel model that offers substantial contributions to the field by enabling decision-makers to analyze the underlying factors influencing the resilience of CBECSC comprehensively The key contributions of this study are as follows:

(i) To enhance understanding of CBECSCR Determinants in the context of Viet Nam

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(ii) To delve into the intricate interrelationships among the critically identified factors, shedding light on how they mutually impact each other within the context of

CBECSCR in the context of Vietnam

(iii) To provide actionable recommendations for businesses operating in this sector, enabling them to enhance their SCR, leading to more effective decision-making and optimized resource utilization

(iv) To contribute methodologically by offering a robust analytical framework capable of accommodating the complexities of SCR by integrating the Fuzzy Delphi and Fuzzy DEMATEL methods

1.6 Thesis outline

Chapter 1: Introduction: This section introduces the role of CBECSCR in Vietnam This section also provides research objectives, scope, subjects, questions, methodology, and data used in the research

Chapter 2: Literature review: The second chapter includes various literature evaluations pertinent

to the topic of the thesis It overviews how numerous aspects interact, creates precise definitions, and describes the selection criteria

Chapter 3: Research Approach: In the third chapter, we describe the approaches we employed to clarify the subject of our study Fuzzy-Delphi Fuzzy-DEMATEL are three different techniques used by our multidisciplinary research team These techniques are utilized per accepted ideas and presumptions to create research equations and reach results

Chapter 4: Analysis of Data and Results: This chapter is highly pertinent to the scope of our investigation In this section, we examine data analysis while offering empirical viewpoints and outlining the findings of our research techniques We also emphasize the most critical research findings while recognizing its limits

Chapter 5: Discussion and Conclusion: This chapter will cover the conclusion, research

implications, and limitatations and future research

in which both transaction parties in separate countries or regions utilize the Internet as the transaction medium to transfer items out of the nation with the aid of postal logistics or express logistics to fulfill the transaction's goal (H Zhang et al., 2023) CBEC has become a dominant force in the global marketplace, reshaping the dynamics of international trade and consumer behavior CBECSR can be characterized as an organizational structure driven by core enterprises, with the primary goal of satisfying the demands of CBEC customers

through collaborative efforts with SC partners This collaboration encompasses all stages of the product lifecycle, including design, procurement, manufacturing, sales, and customer service (Liu et al., 2021) A growing body of research has emerged to explore various facets of this phenomenon For instance, Zhu et al (2019) examined the impact of trust and perceived risk on consumer purchase intentions in CBEC, shedding light on the psychological factors influencing buyer decisions Meanwhile, Y Wang et al (2020) investigated the role of logistics and SCmanagement in the success of CBEC platforms, emphasizing the importance of efficient distribution networks in facilitating international transactions

As an emerging trade model, CBECSR is garnering increased attention from scholars and researchers X Zhang and Liu (2021) studied the operational mechanism and develop a green SCmodel for CBEC grounded in customer behavior Lai (2019) researched logistics SCmanagement of CBECSR utilizing Blockchain technology These studies, among others, collectively contribute to our understanding of CBEC and its multifaceted nature, offering insights into consumer behavior, SC dynamics, and the regulatory environment (RE) As the field continues to evolve, further research is poised to explore emerging trends and challenges in this rapidly changing landscape, making CBEC a rich and dynamic area of scholarly inquiry

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2.1.2 Suplly Chain Resilience

SCR has emerged as a paramount concern for organizations in recent years, given the increasing complexity of global supply networks and the heightened risk of disruptions Resilience is defined as an organization's capacity to adapt and endure diverse disruptions and uncertainties, assuring the continuous provision of goods and services to fulfill customer requirements (Wieland and Durach, 2021) Research in this domain has uncovered critical determinants and strategies for building and enhancing SCR

One notable study by Ivanov and Dolgui (2021) emphasizes the importance of SC flexibility in achieving resilience They argue that adaptable SC designs, such as dual-sourcing and multi-sourcing, can help mitigate risks associated with disruptions The study conducted by Saurabh Ambulkar et al (2014) extends our comprehension of the elements contributing to the cultivation

of business resilience in the context of SC disruptions The way companies oriented towards managing SC disruptions build resilience, either by resource restructuring or enhancing risk management infrastructure, is contingent upon whether the disruption's context is characterized

as high-impact or low-impact Gu et al (2021) argue that the utilization of information technology in interactions between suppliers and customers can enhance SCR and overall SCperformance In addition, Huang Hua et al (2023) employed partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to explore how the utilization of information technology influences the development of competitive advantage within SC competition The results reveal that information technology has a positive effect on enhancing the adaptability of the SCmanagement system

Previous studies in the field of CBESCR delve into various aspects, adds valuable dimensions to our understanding of CBEC, SCR, and more generally, CBESCR gender in general As the field develops the SCR literature remains fluid, new research is needed to explore emerging trends and challenges in the world's rapidly changing landscape Besides, there are rare studies in the world

on the resilience of CBESC in Vietnam Our contribution in this article is a comprehensive overview, synthesis and study of the key factors influencing CBESCR, especially in the context

of Vietnam This research expands our understanding of resilience, explores new strategies, and incorporates emerging technologies to enhance the adaptability and robustness of SCs in an ever-changing world change

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2.2 Literature Review On MCDM Models

The MCDM method is a versatile approach that plays a vital role in assessing a wide range of interconnected criteria, utilizing both qualitative and quantitative metrics to evaluate their performance and relative importance (T L Nguyen et al., 2022) Its applications span across diverse industries, including engineering, economics, environmental management, and healthcare (P.-H Nguyen, 2023) In recent years, there has been a growing interest in fuzzy theory and other fuzzy-based models within the MCDM domain, driven by their effectiveness in handling ambiguity and uncertainty in complex decision scenarios (Güneri & Deveci, 2023; P.-H Nguyen, 2023) Notably, a comprehensive review of past research demonstrates the multitude of approaches and discussions used to construct indicator frameworks and identify essential components In addition to these traditional MCDM models, several popular methods, such as Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) (D Y Chang, 1996), Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) (Opricovic & Tzeng, 2004) Elimination and Choice , Expressing Reality (ELECTRE) (Govindan & Jepsen, 2016), Preference Ranking Organization Method for Enrichment Evaluations (PROMETHEE) (Goswami, 2020), and VIseKriterijumska Optimizacija I Kompromisno Resenje (VIKOR) (Mardani et al., 2016), offer valuable tools for decision-makers in diverse contexts, facilitating informed decision-making and goal prioritization (P H Nguyen, 2022a, 2022b) To gain a thorough understanding of the factors influencing the resilience of CBECSC, it is crucial to integrate various methodologies such as Delphi and DEMATEL, ensuring a holistic exploration of the multifaceted research questions in this field

2.2.1 Fuzzy Sets Theory

Fuzzy set theory, often known as fuzzy logic, offers a precise and rigorous mathematical framework within which conceptually ambiguous phenomena may be thoroughly investigated It may also be seen as a modeling language that excels in contexts with relationships, requirements, and fuzziness (Zimmermann, 2010) The theory of fuzzy sets has developed since its conception

in 1965 in several ways and across various academic fields Applications of this theory include pattern recognition, robotics, management science, expert systems, artificial intelligence, computer science, medicine, control engineering, decision theory, and expert systems