Drivers for a Competitive Circular Citrus Supply Chain: A Case Study of Citrus Peel Waste Dehydration in Egypt

Citrus processing waste (CPW) is a source of valuable inputs to byproducts that are crucial for several industries that contribute to food safety and human health. Valorizing CPW promotes efficient use of resources and waste minimization, supporting the implementation of Circular Citrus Supply Chain (CCSC). This work aims to explore drivers ensuring CCSC competitiveness, exploring the possible valorization drivers of CCSC and offering competitive strategies for CCSC in Egypt. To achieve the desired aim, firstly a systematic review of the related literature is conducted. Secondly, a case study of a CPW dehydrating company in Egypt is studied to recommend strategies for increasing the competitiveness of the CCSC via strategic management tools. According to the reviewed literature, 53 drivers are extracted and classified into five categories, which are economical, social, technological, legal, and environmental. With regards to the case study of a leading company that dehydrates orange peels in Alexandria, Egypt, internal and external factors are evaluated, and an integration strategy is recommended. In addition, a SWOT matrix is developed to support the development of specific strategies, including: (1) implementing strict quality assurance systems; (2) using greener technologies; (3) exploiting the seasonality market gaps of large orange producers; (4) building strategic alliances for horizontal integration; and (5) exploring additional valorization paths.