Overcoming Barriers: A Multi-level Spherical Fuzzy MCDM Approach to Digital Transformation in Vietnam’s Agricultural Supply Chain

Digitalization and innovation are critical to increasing agricultural sustainability, productivity, and efficiency. However, several barriers prevent its implementation, particularly in rising countries such as Vietnam. To solve these challenges in the process of digitization and innovation of agricultural supply chain (DIASC) in Vietnam, this paper provides a model that combines MCDM approaches (DEMATEL and DANP) with Spherical Fuzzy Sets (SFSs) to identify and quantify these barriers. The SF-TOPSIS approach is then applied to rank alternative solutions to create a smoother DIASC transformation. The results highlight technology barriers (D1) and institutional barriers (D4) as the most significant barriers to DIASC in Vietnam. In addition, this study also proposes S1 - Capacity building and cooperation, S2 - Technology solutions, and S5 - Legal framework as urgent solutions to overcome these barriers. The study proposes in-depth knowledge of the barriers to DIASC, providing the foundation for companies and policy makers to develop successful deployment strategies and support DIASC projects.