Systemic drivers of sustainability in smallholder-based agri-food supply chains: insights from DEMATEL analysis

Purpose Agri-food supply chains are vital for food security and sustainable development but remain vulnerable to several disruptions–especially for smallholders. This study aims to identify and analyze the key systemic drivers of sustainability and their interrelations in smallholder-based agri-food supply chains. Design/methodology/approach A mixed-method was adopted using the multi-capital framework to identify sustainability criteria. A panel of ten experts assessed relationships among these factors, which were analyzed using the decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) method to map causal and dependent linkages. Findings The findings indicate that governance, technology and monitoring tools function as the primary causal drivers of sustainability in agri-food supply chains. Scalability appears as a dependent but amplifying outcome, reflecting the combined influence of these drivers rather than acting independently. Environmental protection, natural resource management, social participation, and economic resilience are identified as dependent outcomes. Research limitations/implications This study limitation is related to the size of the expert panel and the reliance on expert judgment. Future research could enhance robustness by including a broader range of stakeholders, integrating quantitative indicators and undertaking comparative analyses across different regional contexts. Originality/value This study provides an original application of the DEMATEL method to identify and structure the causal relationships among sustainability factors in agri-food supply chains. Distinction between drivers and dependent outcomes, contributes to both theoretical understanding and practical decision-making for building resilient and sustainable food systems.