Exploring Blockchain Adoption in Supply Chain Management: Challenges, Opportunities and Sustainability Impacts

Blockchain technology has gained attention for its potential to transform supply chain management (SCM). This study focuses on understanding the key benefits, challenges, and barriers to adopting blockchain in SCM, while also exploring its integration with technologies like smart contracts and the Internet of Things (IoT). Although blockchain promises transparency, efficiency, and trust across supply chains, its adoption often faces burden like the resistance to change, the high implementation costs, and the legal uncertainties. To address these questions, this study used the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and Resistance Model (Davis, 1989) as a framework, guiding a qualitative study based on semi-structured interviews with stakeholders involved in supply chain operations. Using MAXQDA for analysis, this study identified key benefits of the blockchain like improving the traceability, enhancing the operational efficiency, and its potential contribution to sustainability goals, aligning with SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) (United Nations, n.d.). This study also discovered the barriers of the blockchain implementation like employee resistance, integration challenges with existing systems, and regulatory compliance issues. Finally, the findings of this research provide insights into the role of blockchain in advancing supply chain innovation and potential recommendations for businesses considering blockchain adoption.