A study of inhibitors to transparency in red meat supply chains in Gulf cooperation council (GCC) countries

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to investigate the variables for the non-existence of transparency information in red meat supply chains operating in Gulf cooperation council (GCC) countries. The study provides a synthesis and proposes a hierarchy-based model among the identified inhibitors of transparency with their respective importance. Design/methodology/approach – The synthesis and prioritization of inhibitors are done on the basis of an extensive literature review as well as consultation with academicians and meat supply chain professionals. Using semi-structured interviews and Fuzzy-Interpretive Structure Modeling (F-ISM) approach, the research presents a structured model of the identified inhibitors. Findings – The research has two major contributions, first, it presents variables that can be considered as inhibitors for transparency in a supply chain. Second, utilizing the F-ISM model it shows that there exists a group of inhibitors having a high control power and low reliance and are of strategic importance. These variables require utmost attention to make implementation of transparency initiatives to be successful. Practical implications – At a time when management of red meat supply chain is crucial for the food security in the GCC region, these findings will be immensely helpful for the government and industry professionals in developing suitable policies to regulate the red meat supply chains. The study would be particularly relevant when the upstream side is in a developing nation and the need is to avoid any health hazards resulting from the consumption of contagious meat and jeopardize the whole supply chain. Social implications – Cases of discarding plausible contagious meat into sea or abandoning it in open to create environment hazards can be minimized if transparency is implemented in meat supply chain by considering the variables and their relationships discussed in the research. Originality/value – Key issues related to transparency in a food supply chain are discussed and interconnectedness of critical factors for the red meat supply chain are delineated.