How to manage sustainability compliance in multi-tier crop agrifood supply chains through intermediaries?

Khan, M. (2025) How to manage sustainability compliance in multi-tier crop agrifood supply chains through intermediaries? Doctoral thesis, Harper Adams University.

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Abstract

This study investigates sustainability challenges in Pakistan’s rice multi-tier supply chain (MTSC), focusing on the socio-cultural and religious factors that sustain modern slavery and hinder sustainability efforts. A two-stage systematic literature review, incorporating mapping and evidence synthesis, established the theoretical foundation and guided the empirical investigation. The qualitative analysis reveals how cultural values, social hierarchies, and religious beliefs perpetuate exploitative labour practices in the MTSCs of Pakistan's rice industry. The study highlights how Agri Processing Company Limited (APCL), operating as a first-tier intermediary, effectively launched and managed different levels of intermediaries through ‘multi-actor’ and ‘multi-level’ management approaches to extend sustainability upstream in the rice supply chain, particularly in the lower tiers previously considered ‘commodities with no value’. Social networking and progressive farmers played inclusive roles as change agents in bringing all stakeholders of a traditional and fragmented supply chain into a coordinated platform. The bottom-up strategic management approach of APCL gained the trust of local stakeholders and buying firms, resulting in a sustainable business strategy. Increased collaboration at different levels of farming communities led to a transformed methodology for sustainable development through intermediaries. The transformed business structure and mediated governance of ‘multi actors' supply chains revamped socio-ecological outcomes for the lower-tiers and improved local living conditions through economic fairness and equal opportunities. This transformation has contributed significantly to advances in Pakistan's rice industry towards sustainable development. By demonstrating how intermediaries bridge institutional voids and mitigate socio-cultural resistance, this study broadens the understanding of sustainability in MTSCs. Future research should investigate the applicability of intermediary-driven management models across various industries and socioeconomic contexts. Investigating intermediary roles in global supply chains beyond agriculture could further reveal how socio-cultural and economic factors influence supply chain resilience and ethical labour practices.

Item Type:	Thesis (Doctoral)
Divisions:	Agriculture and Environment (from 1.08.20)
Depositing User:	Mrs Susan Howe
Date Deposited:	02 Dec 2025 10:10
Last Modified:	02 Dec 2025 10:10
URI:	https://hau.repository.guildhe.ac.uk/id/eprint/18274

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