Fuzzy Set Qualitative Analysis to overcome covert supply chain risks in maritime logistics

In the recent few years, covert supply chain prevention (CSCP) in the maritime logistics is gaining lot of importance. It refers to hidden and clandestine movement of goods and services using water ways. Therefore, the presented research aims to design multidimensional approaches to assess anticipated risks and develop risk mitigation strategies comprising of technological innovations, regulatory and policy measures, operational and process related controls, security and enforcement measures. The study makes use of Fuzzy-Set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA) approach, which comprises of qualitative reasoning with quantitative analysis to explore the joint promotive effect of conjoint conditions to prevent covert supply chains. The presented research assessed how distinct combination of risk mitigation strategies helps to combat covert supply chain issues. The findings discussed the complex configuration analysis to analyze how technological, regulatory, operational and enforcement impacts effective mitigation of covert supply chain issues. Therefore, the proposed research provides novel configurational aspects in managing supply chain risks in maritime logistics. The findings offer crucial implications for maritime professionals, port authorities, and policymakers by focusing on technology-integrated data driven approach to overcome covert supply chain risks.