Assessing supply chain reconfiguration and dynamic capabilities within an environmental, social and governance framework: an multi-criteria decision-making approach in Vietnam’s garment sector

Purpose This study aims to evaluate a set of criteria representing the core capabilities that garment firms need to sustain competitiveness, including supply chain reconfiguration (SCR), dynamic capabilities (DCs) and environmental, social and governance (ESG), along with 20 sub-criteria. Subsequently, the study assesses 20 Vietnam’s garment companies. Design/methodology/approach A hybrid multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) framework is employed, combining the Spherical Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (SF-AHP) to determine criteria priorities and Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) to rank Vietnam’s garment firms accordingly. Findings The findings reveal that DC is the most influential factor in enhancing adaptability and competitiveness, followed by SCR and ESG practices. Among the evaluated firms, A5, A1 and A9 achieved the highest rankings, demonstrating superior integration of sustainability and operational flexibility. Originality/value This study develops an integrated framework that combines SCR, DC and ESG to address a research gap in sustainability and operations management. By applying the SF-AHP and TOPSIS models, the research advances methodological approaches while offering practical insights for managers and policymakers. The findings provide valuable guidance for Vietnam’s garment sector in redesigning supply chains, strengthening DCs and aligning strategies with sustainable governance.